Shoulder Tendonitis

Shoulder tendonitis is inflammation of one or more of the rotator cuff tendons, most often caused by repetitive overhead motion that gradually irritates the tendon.

Symptoms

Pain, usually on the outer or front part of the shoulder, that worsens with overhead activity or reaching behind the back, along with mild weakness and, sometimes, a catching or clicking sensation with movement.

Who Gets It

Common in swimmers, tennis and baseball players, and people whose work or hobbies involve repetitive overhead movement (such as painting or certain manual trades); risk also increases with age as tendons naturally lose some elasticity.

Treatment

Rest from the aggravating activity, ice, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy focused on strengthening the surrounding muscles and improving shoulder mechanics resolve most cases. A corticosteroid injection may be considered for pain that doesn't improve with these measures.

When It Might Be More Than Tendonitis

Persistent weakness, a specific injury moment, or symptoms that don't improve after a few weeks of appropriate treatment can indicate a partial or full rotator cuff tear rather than simple tendonitis — this distinction usually needs imaging to confirm.