Shoulder Tendinitis

Diagnosis

Symptoms usually develop gradually over time and pain slowly increases with use. Symptoms may include:

• pain, usually 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

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Special attention will be given to your shoulders, checking tender areas, range of motion, and muscle strength.

Tests may include:

• x-rays
  This is a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body, specifically the bones and joints.

• magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
  A test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of the inside of the body, in this case the tendons of the shoulder.

• CT arthrography
  A type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of the joint after a dye has been injected.

• local anesthetic injection
  Anesthesia is injected into the bursa overlying the rotator cuff tendons. If pain is relieved, this may help to confirm the diagnosis of tendinitis.

• arthroscopy
  A long, thin instrument with a light on the end is inserted through a small incision in the shoulder to look at the structures inside. This procedure is done under anesthesia. This is more likely to be done when a rotator cuff rupture is suspected.