What is shoulder tendinitis?
A person with shoulder tendinitis has inflammation of one of the tendons in the shoulder. Tendons are strong bands of tissue that connect muscles to bone. The two most common types of shoulder tendinitis include rotator cuff tendinitis and bicipital tendinitis. A person with rotator cuff tendinitis has inflammation of the tendons that make up the rotator cuff. A person with bicipital tendinitis has inflammation of the biceps tendon. Sports injuries are the most common causes for shoulder tendinitis.

What are the symptoms of shoulder tendinitis?
The most common symptom of shoulder tendinitis is shoulder pain that worsens with movement of the shoulder. Additional symptoms of shoulder tendinitis may include tenderness, swelling, and warmth of the skin over the shoulder.

How does the doctor treat shoulder tendinitis?
Initial treatment for shoulder tendinitis may include rest, a sling, cold compresses, physical therapy, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications for pain. Additional treatment for severe shoulder tendinitis may include corticosteroid medication injections or surgery.