Facebook Pixel

Rotator Cuff Tendonitis Treatments

Treatment

Treatments include :

Rest

Avoid activities that cause shoulder pain.

Ice

To control pain and swelling:

  • Use for 20 minutes at a time.
  • Use during the first 24-48 hours after injury or after exercise.
  • Protect your skin by placing a towel between the ice and your skin.

Heat

Heat may relieve pain and is often used before exercises to help with motion:

  • Do not use with acute pain or following acute injury.
  • Check with a doctor or therapist before using heat the first time.
  • Use for 15-20 minutes at a time.
  • Protect your skin by placing a towel between the heat source and your skin.

Medication

  • Steroid injection into the bursa overlying the rotator cuff to decrease inflammation
    • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage pain (eg, aspirin or ibuprofen )
    • Except for range of motion exercises , do not exercise the shoulder for 7-10 days after an injection.

Rehabilitation

  • Physical therapy to strengthen muscles that control the shoulder
  • Exercises to maintain normal range of motion
  • Exercises for specific muscles that are used in sports or job activities
  • Gradual return to sports and work
  • Learning how to modify activities to prevent re-injury

Surgery

Different procedures can be used depending on the injury:

  • Arthroscopic surgery
  • Open technique

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.

The Latest in Rotator Cuff Tendonitis Treatments

ASK Your Health Question

It's FREE and you'll get a response within 24 hours

ASK

POST Info, Tips & Stories

Inspire others to learn from your experiences. Tell your story!

POST
Get Email Updates

Related Topics

Rotator Cuff Tendonitis Guide

Guide

Have a question? We're here to help. Ask the Community.

ASK

Health Newsletter

Receive the latest and greatest in women's health and wellness from EmpowHER - for free!