Experiencing chronic shoulder pain? For many people, the underlying cause of shoulder pain is an issue in the rotator cuff. The rotator cuff is the group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. This group is called the rotator cuff because it plays a crucial role in helping the shoulder rotate. When injuries and chronic conditions affect the rotator cuff, they can have a major impact on your shoulder’s overall functionality. This means finding effective treatment is typically a top priority. A physical therapy specialist can help identify and address your condition.

When you are experiencing worrying symptoms in your shoulder, being proactive with treatment can be key to success. To intervene early, it can help to understand the warning signs of various conditions that might be affecting you. One common condition that affects the rotator cuff is tendinitis. Tendinitis refers to the inflammation of the tendons. When the tendons in your rotator cuff become inflamed, you may experience a range of symptoms that can worsen over time without treatment. By understanding the symptoms of rotator cuff tendinitis, you can make sure they don’t go ignored.

Serious rotator cuff tendinitis symptoms

• Shoulder pain — Shoulder pain is a hallmark symptom of rotator cuff tendinitis. You may experience dull, aching pains throughout the shoulder. The intensity of this pain often increases during certain movements. Some motions can irritate the shoulder tendons more than others. You may also experience an increase in your pain level while resting in positions that put pressure on your shoulder. Your physical therapist can help identify the factors contributing to your pain. They can then apply tailored treatment methods like manual therapy techniques.
• Arm weakness — Noticing one of your arms is weaker than usual? This could be a symptom of rotator cuff tendinitis. Arm weakness should not be ignored, as it may be a sign of muscle deterioration due to your tendinitis. If your job or hobbies involve arm strength, growing weakness can be a major obstacle. With targeted strengthening exercises and other treatments, your physical therapist can help you restore functionality.
• Shoulder tenderness — Tenderness is often a sign of inflammation. When your shoulder tendons become inflamed, your shoulder may become tender to the touch. Physical contact with your shoulder may lead to bursts of increased pain and soreness. By working to alleviate the inflammation in your shoulder, your physical therapist can help you find long-term relief from your shoulder tenderness.
• Difficulty sleeping — Shoulder discomfort can make it hard to get a restful night of sleep. If you have difficulty sleeping due to shoulder pain, it might be a symptom of rotator cuff tendinitis. Tendinitis often makes the shoulder sensitive to pressure and physical contact. This can make it challenging to find a comfortable resting position. Lying on the side of the affected shoulder, for example, can intensify your pain and keep you awake. Disruptions to your sleep pattern can lead to a whole new set of issues, such as feeling fatigued throughout the day. To prevent these issues and restore your normal sleeping schedule, finding a long-term solution is essential. Your physical therapist can help you make changes and implement treatments designed to help you make a full recovery. By addressing your rotator cuff tendinitis, you can eliminate symptoms such as sleeping issues.
• Popping sensation — Some people with rotator cuff tendinitis experience popping sensations when in motion. This symptom is sometimes described as a clicking or cracking feeling. You may feel like your shoulder is out of place afterward. Popping sensations can be indicative of structural issues around the shoulder joint. If you experience this kind of feeling, you should seek treatment right away. Your physical therapist can help you build shoulder stability to reduce popping and other uncomfortable sensations. 
• Inflammation — The inflammation caused by tendinitis can spread beyond the tendons. Rotator cuff tendinitis can irritate the surrounding muscles and other tissue, leading to widespread inflammation. If you notice swelling or increased stiffness around your shoulder, it is important to act quickly. Your physical therapist can employ anti-inflammatory treatment methods tailored to your particular needs. With the right treatments, you can start your recovery journey before your inflammation gets worse. This can make achieving a full recovery much safer and easier.

Lattimore Physical Therapy can help address your rotator cuff tendinitis symptoms

Ready to find a real solution to your rotator cuff tendinitis symptoms? Lattimore Physical Therapy can help. Our team is committed to helping each patient find lasting relief. Through our personalized hands-on care, you can receive top-notch support as you work to achieve your recovery goals.

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.