What Is Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy?
Rotator cuff tendinopathy refers to degenerative changes in the tendons of the rotator cuff — most commonly the supraspinatus tendon — due to chronic overuse, aging, or altered biomechanics. Unlike a full tear, tendinopathy involves tendon thickening, microtears, and fraying rather than complete rupture.
It is often considered a precursor to a rotator cuff tear and is one of the most frequent causes of shoulder pain in adults, especially those involved in repetitive overhead work or athletics.
Causes and Risk Factors
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Repetitive overhead motions, such as painting, lifting, swimming, or throwing
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Age-related tendon wear (common after age 40)
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Shoulder impingement leading to increased tendon stress
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Poor posture or scapular instability
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Inadequate warm-up or poor training technique
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Previous shoulder injuries
Symptoms
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Dull or aching pain on the outer part of the shoulder
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Pain worsens with overhead activities or reaching behind the back
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Night pain, particularly when lying on the affected side
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Gradual weakness and stiffness
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Loss of mobility if not addressed early
Diagnosis
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Clinical evaluation and shoulder strength testing
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Impingement tests (e.g., Neer and Hawkins-Kennedy)
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Ultrasound or MRI to evaluate tendon thickening or degeneration
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X-rays to assess acromial shape or calcification near the tendon
Treatment
Non-Surgical Treatment
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Rest and activity modification
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Ice and oral anti-inflammatory medications
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Physical therapy focused on:
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Rotator cuff and scapular stabilizer strengthening
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Posture correction
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Stretching tight shoulder structures
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Therapeutic modalities such as ultrasound therapy or dry needling
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Subacromial corticosteroid injections if inflammation is severe
Surgical Treatment
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Reserved for cases unresponsive to conservative therapy over several months
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Arthroscopic debridement to remove degenerated tissue
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Subacromial decompression if mechanical impingement is contributing
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If partial tearing is present, rotator cuff repair may be indicated
Recovery Outlook
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Most patients improve significantly with conservative care
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Recovery timeline varies:
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Mild cases may resolve within 6–12 weeks
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Chronic or more advanced cases may take 3–6 months
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Surgery, when needed, typically allows full recovery within 4 to 6 months, depending on procedure and healing
Why Kerlan Jobe Institute?
At Kerlan Jobe Institute, our team understands the complexity of shoulder biomechanics and tendon health. We offer individualized, non-surgical rehabilitation programs and advanced surgical solutions tailored to the specific stage of rotator cuff disease — helping patients return to their activities with restored shoulder function.