Shoulder Tendinitis Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Symptoms develop gradually over time and pain slowly increases with use.

If you have any of these symptoms do not assume it is due to shoulder tendinopathy. These symptoms may be caused by other conditions. Tell your doctor if you have any of these:

Pain (a dull ache) in the shoulder and upper arm
Pain at night, especially when sleeping on the injured side
Pain when trying to reach for a back zipper or pocket
Pain with overhead use of the arm
Shoulder weakness, usually due to pain with effort
Shoulder stiffness with some loss of motion

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Your doctor will check tender areas, range of motion, and muscle strength.

For severe symptoms or to rule out other problems your doctor may order:

X-rays —a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body
MRI scan —a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of the inside of the body,
CT arthrography—a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of the joint after a dye has been injected into the joint
Local anesthetic injection into the bursa overlying the rotator cuff tendons
- This may confirm diagnosis if pain is relieved.
Arthroscopy —Done under anesthesia, a long, thin, fiberoptic tube with a light on the end is inserted through a small incision in the shoulder to look at the structures inside
- This is more likely done if your doctors thinks you have a rotator cuff rupture.