Supraspinatus Tendinitis- The Most Common Cause of Shoulder Pain
Posted September 23, 2015
Grace Walker, Physical and Occupational Therapist and Nutritionist wants you to experience relief from Supraspinatus tendinitis pain!
Supraspinatus tendinitis is the most common inflammatory problem encountered around the shoulder joint. It is typically seen in people aged 25-60. The syndrome is characterized by inflammation on the tendon of the supraspinatus muscle.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain and inflammation in the shoulder

- Decreased range of motion (ROM)
- Decreased strength & functional activity
- Pain at night while trying to sleep
Risk Factors for Supraspinatus tendinitis (painful arc syndrome)[1]
- Chronic wear and tear of the supraspinatus tendon as it passes under the acromion – this may be in sports-people and people that do a lot of overhead work though it may occur in any person.
- Anatomical factors such as the shape of the acromion or a tight subacromial space due to a thickened ligament may be predisposing factors.
- Tears in the tendon of the supraspinatus or other rotator cuff muscles (commonly occur together) often result from a fall on the shoulder, usually in older people.
- Rheumatoid arthritis may also be a factor.
How to treat it
- Ice packs. They can help reduce pain and inflammation and should be applied to the painful area for 15 minutes at a time.
- Manual therapy. This includes scapular and glenohumeral joint mobilizations and deep friction massage.
Call Walker Physical Therapy & Pain Center to schedule an appointment with an expert and caring physical therapist!
714-997-5518
1111 W. Town and Country Rd. Ste. 1
Orange, CA 92868
[1] http://www.myvmc.com/diseases/supraspinatus-tendinitis-painful-arc-syndrome/