Causes of Shoulder Tendonitis

• Excessive Use or Repetitive Movements: One of the main causes of shoulder tendonitis is the repeated use or overuse of the shoulder joint. This often occurs in athletes who perform repetitive overhead motions, such as tennis players or swimmers. Tasks or activities requiring continuous movements of the arm above the head can also contribute to the development of tendonitis.
• Age: As we age, the tendons in our shoulders may undergo changes due to aging, becoming weaker and more susceptible to injuries. Age-related changes can increase the risk of tendonitis, especially in individuals over the age of 40.
• Poor Body Posture: Incorrect body posture, especially if you work in an office or use a computer for extended periods, can strain the shoulder tendons and lead to inflammation over time.
• Injury or Trauma: A shoulder injury resulting from a fall or a direct hit to the shoulder can cause inflammation of the tendons and lead to shoulder tendonitis.

Symptoms of Shoulder Tendonitis

Shoulder tendonitis typically presents gradually developing symptoms that may vary in intensity depending on the severity of the condition. The most common symptoms include:

• Pain: Persistent pain is one of the primary symptoms of shoulder tendonitis. The pain usually appears on the outer part of the shoulder and may extend beneath the arm. Often described as a dull ache, it can become sharp and more intense during specific movements or activities.
• Pain During Movement: The pain tends to worsen during specific movements involving the affected tendons. Activities such as raising the arm overhead, handling objects behind the back, or lifting heavy items can impact or exacerbate discomfort.
• Limited Range of Motion: Shoulder tendonitis can lead to a reduction in the affected shoulder's range of motion. Patients may struggle to fully raise their arm or even move it into specific positions without experiencing pain or discomfort.
• Weakness: As inflammation and irritation persist, some individuals may feel a lack of strength in the affected shoulder. This weakness can affect daily activities, especially those requiring lifting or carrying objects.
• Night Pain: Some people with shoulder tendonitis may experience increased pain during the night, affecting sleep quality and making it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position.
• Crackling Sensation: In more advanced stages, patients may notice a crackling sensation in the shoulder during arm movement. This is caused by the inflamed tendons rubbing against neighboring structures.

Ultrasound-Guided Injectable Treatments

When conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications fail to provide sufficient relief, a specialized Radiologist can perform an Ultrasound-Guided Injectable treatment for the management of shoulder tendonitis:

• Corticosteroid Injection: Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medications that can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the affected shoulder. The injection is administered directly into the area with the assistance of ultrasound, providing targeted treatment and relief from symptoms.
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections: PRP injections involve using a small amount of the patient's blood from which the platelet-rich plasma, containing growth factors, is isolated. This plasma is then injected into the affected area to promote tissue healing and regeneration. PRP injections have shown promising results in promoting the body's natural healing response and can be an alternative to corticosteroid injections.
• Barbotage for Calcific Tendonitis of the Shoulder: In cases of calcific tendonitis of the shoulder, where the tendons are affected by the formation of calcium deposits, the issue can be effectively addressed through Barbotage therapy. This minimally invasive procedure involves flushing out the calcium deposits with saline solution and injecting anti-inflammatory medication into the subacromial-subdeltoid bursa of the tendon.

The Significance of Ultrasound Guidance

Ultrasound guidance during injectable treatments for tendonitis is crucial for the accuracy and safety of the procedure. With real-time imaging, the Radiologist can discern the target area in detail, ensuring that the injection is precisely administered to the desired location while avoiding surrounding tissues, nerves, or blood vessels.

The precision provided by Ultrasound Guidance not only reduces potential complications but also optimizes the therapeutic outcome, as the injection is delivered exactly to the affected area and not in approximation.

Advantages of Ultrasound-Guided Injectable Treatments

• Immediate Relief: Injections deliver pharmacotherapy directly to the pain area, providing targeted relief and more effectively reducing inflammation than other medications.
• Non-Surgical Option: Injectable treatment is a non-surgical approach for shoulder tendonitis, offering relief possibilities without the need for surgery.
• Enhanced Healing: PRP injections can enhance the body's natural healing response, promoting tissue regeneration and healing.
• Minimal Recovery Time: Injections typically require minimal recovery time compared to surgical interventions, allowing patients to resume their daily activities promptly.

Conclusion

Shoulder tendonitis is a painful condition that can significantly impact an individual's daily life. Timely diagnosis and immediate treatment are crucial to avoid further damage and facilitate rapid recovery. Injections represent a valuable solution for managing shoulder tendonitis, offering targeted relief and enhancing the recovery process. As with any medical treatment, it is critical to consult with a specialized physician to choose the appropriate treatment plan for your case.