Rotator cuff tendinitis

Introduction

The rotator cuff consists of a group of 4 muscles and tendons that are involved in shoulder movement. Inflammation of one or more of these tendons is common and present with pain on elevation and movement of the arm.

These commonly occur in athletes, particularly those involved with over-head throwing activities. Repetitive movement is thought to be the cause but can also occur with a single injury.

Treatment algorithm includes analgesia and muscle strengthening exercises (rotator cuff and core muscles). These are performed with the help and guidance of physiotherapists or osteopaths. The majority of patients improve with this.

Those patients who continue to complain of pain, can have a steroid injection. These can be successful in 60-70% of patients but their effect may be temporary.

If all the above fails, a key hole surgery can be performed. This is called arthroscopic subacromial decompression.