May
27
Dr. Julio Gonzalez, Orthopaedics/Sports Medicine, Discusses Rotator Cuff Tendinitis
Filed Under Physician & Health Articles
Rotator cuff tendinitis is one of the most common problems seen in the shoulder. It is usually a result of overuse activity, and is seen frequently in overhead athletes like swimmers, baseball and volleyball players.
The rotator cuff is a set of four small muscles that helps to stabilize the shoulder. The muscles are called the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. These muscles are working overtime to maintain the shoulder joint in proper position when it is subjected to unstable forces, such as during the repetitive overhead motion of swimming. As a result, the tendons can get inflamed. This inflammation then causes pain and, sometimes, limited motion. The pain is often difficult to localize and commonly radiates into the upper arm. It can be made worse by raising the arm overhead and frequently causes problems sleeping.
The diagnosis can be made by history and physical exam. X-rays are often taken, but are usually normal. An MRI may be done if there is concern for other problems, such as a rotator cuff tear or cartilage damage.
Treatment is initially aimed at decreasing the inflammation. This is usually done with ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and relative rest. Physical therapy is also often prescribed and can help reduce inflammation and pain, as well as strengthen the rotator cuff and other muscles around the shoulder. This can be done by seeing a physical therapist or by doing exercises at home.
Sometimes when these treatments fail, or don’t give complete relief, injections can be considered. These injections are typically a combination of a numbing medicine, like lidocaine, and a steroid anti-inflammatory, like cortisone. This injection is done in the space where the rotator cuff is, not in the shoulder joint itself. It may take a few days to notice any relief from the injection. Even if the injection helps, it is still recommended to continue with the rehabilitation exercises so as to prevent a re-occurrence.
Prevention for rotator cuff injuries involves balancing one’s workouts. Shoulder strengthening exercises should be part of the triathlete’s program so as to limit the chances for developing overuse tendinitis.
Dr. Julio Gonzalez works out of our Glen Ellyn and Naperville offices. For more information or to make an appointment with Dr. Gonzalez, please call 630-790-1872.
Dr. Gonzalez will be a featured speaker and on-hand course physician for the U.S. Women’s Triathlon Serieskicking off in Naperville, Illinois on June 13 and 14, 2009.