Overview of Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy

🏋️‍♀️ Understanding Rotator Cuff Tendonitis: Causes, Symptoms & How to Fix It

If you’ve ever felt a sharp pinch or lingering ache in your shoulder—especially when reaching overhead, lifting objects, or even sleeping—you might be dealing with rotator cuff tendonitis or tendinopathy. This condition is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain, especially in active adults, athletes, and anyone who performs repetitive arm movements.

The good news? With the right approach, most people make a full recovery. Let’s break it down.

💡 What Is Rotator Cuff Tendonitis?

Your rotator cuff is made up of four muscles that sit on your scapula (shoulder blade) and their tendons which attach to your humerus (upper arm bone). Their main function is to stabilize the humeral head (ball) on the glenoid (socket). Tendonitis (sometimes referred to as tendinopathy) occurs when one or more of these tendons becomes irritated or inflamed.

This irritation often develops gradually—think: overuse, poor posture, or repetitive motions—but it can also come from a sudden strain or awkward movement.

🚨 Common Causes

Rotator cuff tendonitis typically results from:

1. Repetitive Overhead Movement

Any activity that repeatedly loads the shoulder can lead to micro-irritation over time.

2. Poor Posture

Forward-rounded shoulders alters the biomechanics of the shoulder joint causing increased demand the tendon(s).

3. Weakness or Imbalance

Weak rotator cuff muscles, tight chest muscles, or underactive scapular stabilizers can alter shoulder mechanics.

4. Age-Related Changes

As we age, tendons naturally become less elastic and more prone to irritation.

5. Sudden Injury

Falls or lifting something unexpectedly heavy can cause acute inflammation.

🩺 Symptoms to Watch For

Rotator cuff tendonitis typically presents with:

• Pain with overhead or behind-the-back movements

• Pain when lifting the arm away from the body

• Tenderness in the front or outside of the shoulder

• Night pain, especially when lying on the affected side

• Weakness or fatigue with shoulder movements

• A painful arc—discomfort between 60°–120° of arm elevation

Left untreated, tendonitis can progress to subacromial impingement or even partial tears in the rotator cuff, so early management is important.

🧠 How Physical Therapy Helps

Physical therapy is the gold standard for treating rotator cuff tendonitis. A well-structured program addresses the root cause—not just the symptoms.

1. Identify Movement Restrictions at the shoulder joint.

2. Identify Movement Restrictions at surrounding joints.

3. Improve Joint Mobility

4. Increase Rotator Cuff

6. Gradual Return to Sport or Work

Current evidence suggests that the rotator cuff is not simply weak but rather the tendons are living in an unhealthy environment. Certain proteins will accumulate in the environment of the tendon which attract water and leads to increased intratendinous pressure which then leads to increased compression sensitivity.

This current research leads to a change in how rotator cuff tendinopathy is treated.

🛑 When to Seek Medical or PT Evaluation

You should see a clinician if:

• Pain lasts more than 1–2 weeks

• You experience night pain

• Over-the-counter meds don’t help

• You notice weakness or limited range

• Pain interferes with daily activities or work

Early intervention prevents chronic irritation and speeds up recovery.

👍 Final Thoughts

Rotator cuff tendonitis/tendinopathy is painful—but very treatable. With the right combination of rest, biomechanics correction, strengthening, and guided rehab, most people return to full activity without lingering issues.

If you’re experiencing shoulder pain and think it may be related to rotator cuff tendonitis, a physical therapy evaluation is an important first step. At Elite Physiotherapy we will provide you with a comprehensive movement evaluation to identify underlying issues and build a plan to overcome the pain you experiencing and get you back to the activities you love.

Call or Text (317) 853-6060 or visit our website  www.elitephysioindy.com to schedule a Discovery Call and discuss your specific symptoms.