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Shoulder Tendon Injuries

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Tears or inflammation of the tendons around the shoulder that affect strength and mobility

Shoulder tendon disorders encompass a range of conditions affecting the tendons in the shoulder joint, including tendinitis, tendinopathy, and tendon tears. These conditions can lead to pain, reduced mobility, and impaired shoulder function. Dr Ben McGrath, an orthopaedic specialist, offers expert care and tailored treatment options to help patients manage these disorders and regain shoulder health.

What are Shoulder Tendon Disorders?

Shoulder tendon disorders involve damage, inflammation, or degeneration of the tendons that connect muscles to bones in the shoulder. These tendons, including those of the rotator cuff and biceps, play a critical role in stabilising and moving the shoulder. Disorders can range from mild inflammation (tendinitis) to chronic degeneration (tendinopathy) or complete tendon tears.

Common Symptoms of Shoulder Tendon Disorders

Patients with shoulder tendon disorders may experience:

  • Shoulder Pain: Worsening with movement, particularly overhead or repetitive activities.
  • Weakness: Difficulty lifting or rotating the arm due to reduced tendon function.
  • Tenderness: Sensitivity to touch at specific points in the shoulder.
  • Limited Range of Motion: Stiffness or difficulty performing normal activities, such as reaching or lifting.
  • Clicking or Popping Sensations: Audible or palpable sounds during shoulder movement.
  • Swelling or Warmth: Inflammation may cause localised swelling or a sensation of heat around the joint.

Causes and Risk Factors for Shoulder Tendon Disorders

Shoulder tendon disorders can result from:

  • Overuse: Repetitive motions, such as throwing or swimming, place stress on tendons.
  • Ageing: Tendons naturally weaken and lose elasticity over time, increasing susceptibility to injury.
  • Poor Posture: Forward-rounded shoulders or slouched posture can strain tendons.
  • Trauma: Falls or direct impacts may cause acute tendon injuries.
  • Sports and Occupations: Activities involving repetitive overhead motions, such as tennis or construction, heighten the risk.
  • Previous Shoulder Injuries: Rotator cuff tears or shoulder impingement can predispose individuals to further tendon damage.

Identifying these risk factors is essential for prevention and management.

Types of Shoulder Tendon Disorders

Shoulder tendon disorders are classified based on the type and severity of the condition:

  1. Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendon, often due to overuse or acute strain.
  2. Tendinopathy: Chronic degeneration of the tendon, leading to pain and reduced strength.
  3. Partial Tears: A portion of the tendon is torn but remains partially attached.
  4. Full-Thickness Tears: The tendon is completely severed from its attachment to the bone.
  5. Calcific Tendinitis: Calcium deposits in the tendon causing pain and stiffness.

Each type requires a tailored approach to treatment.

Diagnosis of Shoulder Tendon Disorders

Dr Ben McGrath uses a detailed diagnostic approach to identify shoulder tendon disorders:

  • Medical History and Physical Examination: Assessing symptoms, shoulder movement, and specific pain points.
  • Imaging Tests:
    • Ultrasound or MRI: Provides detailed images of tendons to confirm inflammation, degeneration, or tears.
    • X-rays: May detect associated conditions, such as calcific deposits or bone spurs.

Accurate diagnosis ensures effective treatment and better outcomes.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Shoulder Tendon Disorders

Many shoulder tendon disorders can be managed without surgery:

  • Physiotherapy: A tailored exercise program to strengthen shoulder muscles, improve flexibility, and restore function.
  • Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding movements that aggravate symptoms to allow the tendons to heal.
  • Medications: NSAIDs can reduce pain and inflammation. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any medication.
  • Corticosteroid Injections: In cases of severe pain, injections may provide temporary relief.
  • Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT): A non-invasive treatment for conditions like calcific tendinitis, promoting tendon healing.

These treatments aim to reduce symptoms and support tendon recovery without invasive procedures.

Surgical Treatments for Shoulder Tendon Disorders

Surgery may be necessary for severe or persistent tendon disorders:

  • Arthroscopic Tendon Repair: A minimally invasive procedure to repair torn tendons and restore function.
  • Tendon Debridement: Removal of damaged tendon tissue to promote healing.
  • Rotator Cuff Repair: Specific repair techniques for rotator cuff injuries, including suture anchors.
  • Biceps Tenodesis or Tenotomy: For biceps tendon disorders, surgical reattachment or release may be performed.

Dr McGrath carefully evaluates each case and discusses the most appropriate surgical options based on the patient’s condition and lifestyle. Post-surgical rehabilitation is critical for successful recovery.

When to See Dr Ben McGrath for Shoulder Pain

If you experience persistent shoulder pain, weakness, or difficulty with daily activities, or if symptoms worsen despite conservative treatments, a consultation with Dr McGrath can provide an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

FAQs About Shoulder Tendon Disorders

Many cases, particularly mild to moderate tendon disorders, improve with physiotherapy, rest, and activity modification. Surgery is typically reserved for severe tears or chronic conditions.

Recovery times vary, but most patients regain function within 3–6 months with proper rehabilitation.

Maintaining good posture, strengthening shoulder muscles, and avoiding repetitive overhead activities can reduce the risk of tendon disorders.

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