Symptoms

• Rotator cuff tendonitis is characterized by swelling of the tendons surrounding the shoulder. Swelling is typically accompanied by pain and difficulty moving the neighboring joints. The skin around the shoulder may also redden and become tender to the touch.
  
  

Physical Therapy

• Physical therapy is often given to individuals who have been injured or are suffering from limited mobility. During physical therapy, a therapist will typically expose a patient to a variety of techniques designed to restore mobility and stimulate damaged tissue. In regard to rotator cuff tendonitis, physical therapy is designed to reduce pain and restore flexibility to the shoulder tendons.
  
  

Techniques

• A therapist will counsel a patient on how to limit the possibility of future injury to the shoulder. For example, if the patient is involved in sports, physical therapy may include a discussion concerning proper form, attire and what activities are appropriate for the injured shoulder. A therapist will run a patient through a variety of stretches, exercises and postures necessary to restore strength to weakened tendons. In some cases, modalities like electroshock therapy, ultrasonic waves, ice and heat will be applied to the rotator cuff to stimulate damaged tissue.
  
  

Surgery

• If rotator cuff tendonitis causes the tendon to weaken and snap, surgery will be required to reattach the broken ends of the tendon. A surgeon will often send a patient to a physical therapist after surgery. The physical therapist will monitor the patient and prescribe mild hand and arm exercises to ensure that the rotator cuff heals properly.
  
  

Home Care

• Rotator cuff tendonitis can also be cared for at home. Ice, cold packs, or bags of frozen vegetables can be wrapped in a thin cloth and applied to the rotator cuff for short intervals (10 to 15 minutes). This will reduce swelling and numb pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen can be taken to limit symptoms of tendonitis. The rotator cuff should be rested and used as little as possible to speed the healing process. Under no circumstances should excessive force be applied to the rotator cuff, as it may cause the tendons to weaken or fray.