Supraspinatus tendonitis, which is also generally referred to as rotator cuff tendonitis, is one of the biggest forms of tendonitis seen by doctors. The rotator cuff is comprised of many tendons and it is the supraspinatus tendon, which connects the shoulder blade to the arm bone, and it is this tendon that is prone to tendonitis.
The leading cause of this condition is repetitive movement, such as the arm movements required for playing tennis and a number of other sports. While a number of sports can result in a person suffering from supraspinatus tendonitis, certain sports are more likely to cause the condition than others. Either way, the pain and discomfort can be unbearable.
People that play tennis and baseball, as well as swimmers, and golfers are all at risk of getting tendonitis. Nonetheless, supraspinatus tendonitis does not affect individuals that play sports, but also certain jobs have a higher risk of developing this condition. Occupations such as carpentry, painting, and decorating are known to cause this problem. The condition will start in the shoulder of the arm that gets used most often.
How can you tell if you have supraspinatus tendonitis?
Overall, the condition begins with a dull pain in the shoulder; however, it can also spread down the arm and even across the chest region. Any arm movements like extending it or lifting it will cause much pain. People that experience this problem also discover that sleeping is not easy because of the weight being placed on the arm or shoulder that will end up in much pain.
If left untreated, the condition will become steadily worse and eventually it will be virtually impossible to move the arm at all without experiencing excruciating pain. Once it reaches this stage, those with the condition will do their utmost to avoid moving their arm, and of course this then results in the shoulder joint becoming increasingly stiff.
Over and above the pain and stiffness, one can often experience bruising and noticeable swelling around the immediate area. Also, the shoulder area may appear to be red, in which case it will also be tender to the touch. Interestingly enough, when swelling occurs, it usually does so internally rather than externally, although it will of course still be visible.
Treatments
If you let the tendonitis get to a late stage, then you must go see a doctor. In many cases, medication such as painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications will be given in combination with physiotherapy, which you will need to regain movement. If you have a badly damaged tendon, then you may need surgery.
If you play regular support which demands repetitive arm movements, or you're in an occupation which requires repetitive arm movements, and you begin experiencing a dull aching pain in your shoulder area, don't be tempted to ignore it in the hope that it will simply go away. Remember, rotator cuff tendonitis can end up being unbearably painful, and as such, you should seek treatment at the earliest possible time.
Author Resource:
Tom Nicholson has spent years helping sufferers of carpal tunnel syndrome. You can follow this link to learn more about having asore wrist .
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