Tendon injuries

The rotator cuff consists of four tendons that surround the head of the humerus (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis). Depending on the type of injury and the location of the joint, there are several different types of injuries:

• Tendinitis: inflammation of a tendon that can be caused by repeating the same movement or posture. The most common types of tendinitis, depending on the tendon affected, are:
• Supraspinatus tendinitis: repeated shoulder lifting movements cause impingement between the head of the humerus and the acromial arch. It is the main cause of subacromial syndrome or painful shoulder, which often results in tendon rupture.
• Calcific tendinitis: inflammation of the tendons of the rotator cuff, particularly the supraspinatus tendon, caused by the deposit of calcium within it.
• Tendinitis due to shoulder instability: elongated ligaments that do not hold the joint securely in place and cause slight instability of the shoulder between the humeral head and the shoulder blade can lead to tendinitis with persistent shoulder pain.

When dealing with tendinitis, the usual treatment involves rest and rehabilitation. If conservative treatment does not work, shoulder arthroscopy may be necessary. After surgery, the patient will need to undergo physiotherapy treatment.

• Tendon ruptures: a tendon rupture can occur due to the deterioration of tendinitis. Partial tears allow some movement of the joint but with pain, some cracking and decreased strength. However, if it is a complete tear, the patient will experience pain and be unable to lift their arm, or they may be able to lift it but with pain. In these cases, the usual treatment is surgery to repair the damage.