Shoulder tendonitis can make the simplest movements feel difficult. It is a condition that occurs when the tendons in the shoulder become inflamed, often due to overuse or an acute injury.
While treatment options such as rest, therapy, and medication can help with healing, doing the wrong things can worsen the condition. By understanding what to avoid, you can better manage symptoms and promote faster recovery.
This blog will explain common mistakes people make when dealing with tendinitis of the shoulder, along with actionable tips to support your recovery.
Avoid Ignoring the Pain
Shoulder tendonitis pain is not something you should push through. Ignoring mild pain can lead to worsening inflammation, putting you at risk for chronic issues like tendon degeneration or rotator cuff tears.
Pain is your body’s way of signaling that something is wrong and if left unaddressed, small injuries can become more severe over time.
What You Should Do
Contact a medical professional, such as an orthopedic doctor for shoulder pain, if you have consistent discomfort that does not improve within a few days.
You can search for a shoulder doctor near you to find experienced professionals who can evaluate your condition and create a treatment plan.
Do Not Overuse the Affected Shoulder
Using an inflamed shoulder as if nothing is wrong can worsen tendonitis. Common overuse activities include repetitive movements, lifting heavy objects, or exercising despite the pain. These actions can increase swelling and delay recovery.
What You Should Do
Rest the shoulder by avoiding activities that involve overhead motion or lifting weights. Your doctor may recommend a sling to support the area and reduce strain. Balance rest with prescribed exercises to maintain mobility and prevent stiffness.
Say No to Incorrect Exercises
Stretching and strengthening exercises are important for recovery but performing exercises incorrectly can worsen shoulder tendonitis. Exercises that are too vigorous or do not account for your pain level will strain the tendons further. For some people, this can lead to a frozen shoulder, limiting mobility further.
What You Should Do
Consult a physical therapist or a shoulder specialist who can guide you on safe stretches. Gradually build strength with exercises specially designed for your condition.
Do Not Rely Solely on Painkillers
Painkillers, such as acetaminophen or anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen (Advil), may provide short-term relief but do not address the root cause of tendinitis of the shoulder. Solely relying on medication masks symptoms without promoting healing.
What You Should Do
Painkillers can be useful as part of a broader treatment strategy. Use them as recommended by your doctor, but also focus on long-term solutions like physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and stress management to treat the underlying problem.
Avoid Poor Posture at All Costs
Poor posture can place extra strain on your shoulder tendons, making it harder for your shoulder to heal. Working long hours at a computer or sitting with a slouched back often contributes to poor posture.
These habits worsen alignment in your shoulders and can aggravate tendinitis of the shoulder.
What You Should Do
Practice good posture by keeping your back straight and shoulders relaxed. Ensure your work environment is ergonomically designed. Adjust your desk height, use supportive chairs, and take frequent breaks to stretch and reset your posture throughout the day.
Avoid Sleeping in Bad Positions
Sleeping in awkward positions can strain muscles, put pressure on joints, and lead to poor spinal alignment. This can increase shoulder pain, disrupt sleep quality, and slow down recovery from injuries or physical stress.
What You Should Do
Do your best to avoid lying on the affected side. Instead, try sleeping on your back or with a pillow to support your arm and shoulder.
Do Not Delay Seeking Professional Help
One of the worst things you can do is delay seeking treatment for shoulder tendinitis, thinking it will resolve on its own. Over time, untreated inflammation can lead to more serious conditions requiring surgical intervention. Early diagnosis and treatment from a professional are essential to prevent complications.
What You Should Do
If your symptoms persist or worsen over several days, find an orthopedic doctor for shoulder pain. Scheduling an appointment with a shoulder doctor early can help you address the problem before it becomes severe.
Minimize Stress to the Area After Treatment
Even after treatment, many rush back into intense physical activity too soon. This setback occurs because the tendons are not fully healed, making them vulnerable to re-injury.
What You Should Do
Gradually return to activity under professional guidance. Follow prescribed physical therapy programs and consult your doctor before reintroducing any strenuous exercises.
Tendinitis of the Shoulder in Lutherville, MD
Tendinitis of the shoulder does not have to limit your life. By avoiding these common mistakes and taking proactive steps, you can support your recovery and improve your overall quality of life. Early diagnosis, professional guidance, and consistent self-care are crucial.
At Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder, we specialize in diagnosing and treating tendinitis of the shoulder. Our experienced team of board-certified orthopedists uses state-of-the-art technology to deliver personalized treatments that get you back to doing what you love.
Do not wait for shoulder pain to take over your life. Call (410) 296-6232 or fill out our appointment request form to schedule a consultation with our board-certified orthopedic doctors. Together, we can help you overcome tendinitis of the shoulder and get back to doing the things you love.
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