Rotator Cuff Tendinitis
Alternate Names : Supraspinatus Tendinitis, Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Rotator cuff tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendons of the shoulder. A
tendon is a fibrous band that connects muscles to bones.
The muscles of the rotator cuff connect the humerus, or upper bone of the arm, to the shoulder. At the end of each muscle is a tendon that attaches the muscle to the bone. The four muscles of the rotator cuff are able to move bones by pulling on these tendons. These muscles and tendons allow movement and rotation of the arm and shoulder. Since these tendons are in frequent motion they are susceptible to injury, pain, and inflammation.
What are the causes and risks of the injury?
The causes of rotator cuff tendinitis may include:
injury to part of the shoulder or muscles of the shoulder
the shoulder blade rubbing, pinching, or irritating the tendon
repetitive stress injury, especially if the person's arm is repeatedly raised above the shoulder
poor posture, which puts extra pressure on the muscles and tendons
sudden increase in duration and intensity of exercising that involves the
arm and shoulder
calcium deposits in the rotator cuff
musculoskeletal or inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis
the normal aging process of the body
A person involved in sports before the injury may find a decrease in the normal range of motion in the shoulder. Chronic pain or soreness in the shoulder may occur. Rupture of the tendon is also possible.
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