Shoulder tendonitis is a common ailment affecting many people, particularly athletes or individuals with physically demanding jobs. This condition occurs when the tendons in the shoulder become inflamed, resulting in pain and reduced mobility. If left untreated, shoulder tendonitis can lead to more severe complications. In this article, we will explore three ways to treat shoulder tendonitis to help you regain your range of motion and enjoy a pain-free life.

1. Rest and Ice

The first and most important step in treating shoulder tendonitis is to allow the affected area to rest. Avoid activities that may cause further inflammation or aggravate the injury. You can also use ice packs on the injured area for 20 minutes at a time every 2-3 hours during the initial days of injury. This helps reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Remember to wrap the ice pack in a towel before applying it to your skin to avoid frostbite.

2. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is highly recommended for cases of shoulder tendonitis. A trained physical therapist will provide you with a personalized exercise plan that gradually builds up strength, flexibility, and stability in the affected shoulder muscles and tendons. The exercises are typically designed to reduce pain, promote healing and prevent future injuries by strengthening supporting structures.

Physical therapy sessions may also include other treatment modalities such as ultrasound therapy, electrical muscle stimulation, or manual therapies like massage or joint mobilization techniques. These therapies can improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation, thereby speeding up the healing process.

3. Medication and Corticosteroid Injections

For cases of persistent pain or severe inflammation, your healthcare provider may recommend over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen. These medications can help control inflammation and alleviate pain.

If conservative treatments fail to provide relief, your healthcare provider may suggest corticosteroid injections. These injections aim to reduce inflammation directly within the affected tendon, providing rapid pain relief and improving mobility. It’s important to note that while corticosteroids can provide instant relief, they should be used with caution as they may weaken the tendon over time if used excessively.

In conclusion, treating shoulder tendonitis involves a combination of rest, physical therapy, and potentially medication or corticosteroid injections. It is essential to consult your healthcare provider before starting any treatment plan to ensure you are following the best course of action for your specific condition. By adhering to these treatments, you can effectively relieve pain and regain your shoulder function, allowing you to return to your daily activities pain-free.