Shoulder Tendonitis & Neck Pain

Shoulder tendonitis occurs when tendons become too inflamed to pass comfortably between the arm and shoulder bones. Severe shoulder tendonitis pain may often radiate into the neck and trapezius area. Treatment usually includes, rest, ice, heat, medication and exercise.

Significance

• Anyone with shoulder tendonitis and neck pain needs to start immediate treatment. If they let their symptoms linger on, the tendons in the rotator cuff could tear. This may require surgery.

Types of Treatment

• Anyone with shoulder tendonitis should rest for a few days. During this time, they should wear a brace to help prevent further injury. Moreover, it is also important to take an anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen to alleviate inflammation and pain.

Other Types of Treatment

• Use ice on the shoulder for the first 48 to 72 hours. An ice pack should be compressed directly against the source of pain. Ice controls the initial inflammation and swelling by restricting blood flow to the shoulder. Once the initial swelling has subsided, a heating pad can stimulate blood flow, which carries oxygen and nutrients essential for healing.

Effects of Exercise

• After the inflammation and pain are under control, stretching and strength-building exercises further enhance blood flow and the healing process. Stretching helps relieves tight muscles and increases flexibility. Building strength in the shoulder and adjacent muscles will better stabilize the joint.

Time Frame

• There is no set time frame for overcoming shoulder tendonitis and neck pain. Recovery is contingent upon how closely one adheres to specific treatment options.