Tendinitis of the supraspinous muscle

Tendonitis of the supraspinous muscle (also known as "brachial cuff tendonitis") is inflammation or irritation of the tendons of the muscles that make up the shoulder cuff. The shoulder cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that surround and stabilize the shoulder joint. These muscles and tendons play an important role in maintaining the functionality and mobility of the shoulder joint.

Tendonitis of the supraspinous muscle can occur due to injury, overuse or aging, when the tendons begin to wear out or become less elastic. Irritation and inflammation of the tendons can lead to pain, discomfort and restricted movement in the shoulder. This condition can occur as a result of repetitive upper extremity movements, injury, or simply with age.

Symptoms of tendonitis of the supraspinous muscle may include:

• Pain and discomfort in the shoulder, especially when raising the arm above the head or with rotational movements.
• Limitation of mobility in the shoulder.
• Weakness in the shoulder.
• In some cases, swelling or inflammation in the shoulder area.

It is important to see a physician to diagnose and treat supraspinous tendonitis. Treatment may include rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and in rare cases, surgery. It is important to begin treatment as early as possible to prevent the condition from worsening and restore functionality to the shoulder joint.

Causes of the tendonitis of the supraspinous muscle

Causes of tendonitis of the supraorbital muscle may include the following factors:

1. Overexertion: Overuse of the shoulder and upper arm, such as repeatedly lifting weights, repetitive motions in sports or at work, can cause tendonitis.
2. Trauma: Contusions, falls, bumps and other traumatic injuries to the shoulder can lead to traumatic tendinitis of the supraspinous muscle.
3. Improper movement technique: Improper lifting, throwing or other movement techniques can increase stress on the tendon of the supraspinous muscle and cause tendonitis.
4. Age: As we age, the level of elasticity and strength of tendons can decrease, making them more susceptible to inflammation.
5. Diseases and medical conditions: Certain diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, and some infectious diseases can increase the risk of developing tendonitis.
6. Genetic factors: Hereditary predisposition to tendonitis can also play a role in its development.

Symptoms of the tendonitis of the supraspinous muscle

Here are some of the main symptoms of tendonitis of the supraorbital muscle:

1. Pain: The main symptom of tendonitis is pain at the top of the shoulder and around the joint. The pain can be moderate to severe and usually increases with arm movement, especially when lifting and rotating the shoulder.
2. Limitation of motion: Tendinitis of the supraspinous muscle can cause limitation of motion in the shoulder joint. Patients may have difficulty raising the arm, especially above shoulder level, and turning the arm.
3. Swelling and inflammation: Inflammation of the tendon of the supraorbital muscle can lead to swelling in the shoulder and upper arm area.
4. Feeling weak: Patients may also feel weakness in the shoulder and arm, especially when attempting to perform weight-bearing movements.
5. Crunching and cracking: In some cases, a crunching or cracking sound may be heard when moving the shoulder or arm, which is due to irritation and damage to the tendon.
6. Pain at night: In some patients, pain may increase at night, which can interfere with normal sleep.

Stages

Tendinitis of the supraspinous muscle can go through several stages of development, although the exact number and nature of the stages may vary slightly depending on the source of information. The following main stages of supraspinatus tendonitis are commonly recognized:

1. Inflammation or irritation: In this initial stage, the tendon of the supraspinous muscle becomes inflamed. The patient may experience some pain and discomfort in the shoulder or upper arm, especially when moving.
2. Fibrosis: In this stage, the tendon thickens and thickens due to ongoing inflammation and changes in the tissue. Patients may notice more significant pain and limitation of movement.
3. Degeneration or degenerative tendonitis: In this stage, there is a gradual breakdown of the tendon structure, which can lead to loss of elasticity and deterioration of muscle function. Pain and restriction of movement may increase.
4. Calcification: In some cases, calcium deposits can form on the tendon during chronic tendonitis, which can also cause pain and discomfort.
5. Tendon rupture: In the most serious cases, if tendonitis is left untreated and continues to progress, the tendon may rupture completely or partially, requiring more intensive treatment and in some cases surgery.

It is important to note that patients can progress from one stage to another, and the severity of tendonitis can vary.

Forms

There are different types of tendonitis that affect the supraspinous muscle of the shoulder and may have different characteristics and causes.

1. Calcifying tendinitis of the supraspinous muscle:

   • This is a form of tendonitis in which calcium deposits (concretions) form on the tendon of the supraspinous muscle.
   • The cause of calcium deposits can vary, but it is often due to chronic inflammation and tissue changes.
   • Symptoms include pain and restriction of shoulder movement, especially with certain positions and loads.
   • Treatment may include physical therapy, ultrasound therapy and sometimes surgical removal of calcium deposits.

2. Osteophytic tendonitis of the supraspinous muscle:

   • Osteophytic tendonitis is associated with the formation of osteophytes, or bony growths, on the tendon of the supraspinous muscle.
   • This often occurs as a result of joint degeneration and changes in the shoulder joint.
   • Symptoms include pain and discomfort in the shoulder, especially when moving.
   • Treatment may include pain medication, physical therapy and sometimes surgical removal of osteophytes.

3. Degenerative tendinitis of the supraspinous muscle of the shoulder:

   • Degenerative tendonitis is related to the gradual wear and tear of the tendon of the supraorbital muscle, which can occur with age.
   • This type of tendonitis is often referred to as "tendinosis" and is characterized by loss of elasticity and structural changes in the tendon.
   • Symptoms include pain and restricted movement in the shoulder area.
   • Treatment includes physical therapy, relaxation and pain relief measures, as well as exercises to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.

Complications and consequences

Complications of supraspinous muscle tendonitis may include the following:

1. Chronic pain: If tendinitis is not properly treated or adequately rehabilitated, it can become chronic, resulting in constant pain and long-term discomfort in the shoulder.
2. Limitation of movement: Inflammation and pain associated with supraspinous tendonitis can limit movement in the shoulder joint. This can affect the patient's ability to perform normal tasks and activities, including lifting and carrying weights.
3. Muscle weakness: Patients with supraspinous tendonitis may develop muscle weakness in the shoulder and upper arm due to restricted movement and pain, which may affect their ability to perform functional tasks.
4. Tendon rupture: If tendonitis goes untreated or is subjected to long-term damage, the tendon of the supraspinous muscle may rupture. This requires surgery and long-term rehabilitation.
5. Secondary changes: Long-term inflammation and injury to the tendon can lead to secondary changes in shoulder structure and function, including the development of shoulder arthritis.
6. Psychological effects: Prolonged pain and restricted movement can have psychological effects on the patient, including depression and anxiety, especially if the condition lasts for a long time.
7. Loss of Performance: Tendinitis of the supraorbital muscle can reduce performance in work or daily life due to pain and limitations in movement.

Diagnostics of the tendonitis of the supraspinous muscle

Diagnosing supraspinatus tendonitis involves several steps and methods that help the doctor determine the presence of this condition and its severity. Here are the main methods for diagnosing supraspinatus tendonitis:

1. Physical Exam: The doctor will perform a physical exam where he or she may assess the shoulder and upper arm area, checking for pain, swelling, restricted movement, and other symptoms.
2. Anamnesis (medical history): Your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms, when they started, what causes them, and risk factors such as injuries or overuse in the shoulder area.
3. Imaging methods:
   1. a. X-ray: X-rays may be used to rule out other problems, such as fractures or arthritis, that may mimic the symptoms of tendonitis but usually do not show the tendon inflammation itself.
   2. b. Ultrasound (ultrasound examination): Ultrasound can help visualize the tendon, assess its condition, and detect signs of inflammation such as swelling and thickening.
   3. c. MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): An MRI can provide a more detailed image of the shoulder joint and tendon, which can help in determining the extent of the injury.
4. Laboratory tests: There are usually no specific laboratory tests to diagnose tendonitis, but blood may be drawn to rule out other inflammatory or infectious conditions.

Differential diagnosis

Differential diagnosis of supraspinatus tendonitis involves identifying and distinguishing this condition from other possible causes of pain and discomfort in the shoulder and upper arm. Below are some of the possible conditions that may mimic the symptoms of supraspinatus tendonitis and require differential diagnosis:

1. Forearm syndrome: This condition is characterized by pain and discomfort in the upper forearm and can be caused by a variety of reasons such as supinator tendonitis, cervical radiculopathy or other neurological problems.
2. Arthritis of the shoulder joint: Inflammation of the shoulder joint can cause pain and restricted movement, which can be similar to the symptoms of tendonitis.
3. Shoulder neck enlargement: Shoulder neck enlargement or shoulder neck bursitis can also cause pain and inflammation in the shoulder area.
4. Shoulder Tunnel Syndrome: This condition can cause pain and numbness in the shoulder and arm and can be confusing in the differential diagnosis.
5. Nerve compression syndrome: Nerve compression syndromes, such as wing bone syndrome or sternal arch syndrome, can also cause symptoms similar to tendonitis of the supraspinous muscle.

In order to make an accurate differential diagnosis and determine the cause of shoulder pain and discomfort, a medical examination should be performed. This may include physical examination, radiography, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), ultrasound (ultrasound) and other diagnostic procedures.

Treatment of the tendonitis of the supraspinous muscle

Treatment for supraspinatus tendonitis can involve a variety of methods, and the choice of certain methods depends on the severity of the condition, symptoms, and doctor's recommendations. Here are some common treatments for suprapelvic tendonitis:

1. Rest: The first step in the treatment of tendonitis is to limit active movements and activities that could aggravate the condition of the tendon. The patient may be advised to temporarily avoid heavy lifting and repetitive movements.
2. Ice application: Applying ice to the shoulder area can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes several times a day.
3. Use of anti-pain and anti-inflammatory drugs: Your doctor may recommend taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, to reduce pain and inflammation.
4. Physical therapy: Physical therapy can be effective in treating tendonitis. A physical therapist can develop a program of exercises and techniques to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and restore movement.
5. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: A physical therapy specialist can also teach you how to perform stretching and strengthening exercises to improve the condition of the tendon and prevent recurrences.
6. Injections: In some cases, your doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections into the tendon area to reduce inflammation and pain.
7. Tape Application: Special tapes can be applied to support and stabilize the shoulder and tendon.
8. Surgery: If tendinitis becomes chronic and does not respond to conservative treatment, surgery may be required to review and, if necessary, repair the tendon.

Exercises for tendonitis of the supraspinous muscle

Can help strengthen muscles, improve shoulder mobility and reduce pain. However, before you begin exercising, it is important to consult with your doctor or physical therapist so they can recommend the best exercise plan for your individual situation. Below are some common exercises that may be helpful for patients with supraspinous tendonitis:

1. Exercises to strengthen the supraspinous muscle:

   • Vertical arm raise with dumbbells or rubber band. Lift your arm straight up from your torso, keeping your elbow straight.
   • Vertical and horizontal arm extensions with dumbbells.
   • Lifting arms with dumbbells or band forward and to the sides.
   • Exercises with exercise equipment specifically designed to strengthen the supraspinous muscle.

2. Exercises to improve mobility:

   • Stretching the supraspinous muscle: Stand up straight, cross your arms over your chest and gently push your elbows forward, creating a slight tension in the shoulder area. Hold this position for 20-30 seconds.
   • Stretching the front and back of the shoulder: Take the arm from the opposite shoulder and gently pull it toward your chest, then pull the arm across your back. Hold each position for 20-30 seconds.
   • Shoulder Rotation: Rotate your shoulder in circles back and forth to improve mobility.

3. Rubber band work: Use a rubber band to perform a variety of exercises such as arm extension, elbow flexion and extension, and other movements to strengthen the supraspinous muscle.

4. Shoulder stabilization exercises: Exercises that focus on strengthening the muscles that keep the shoulder joint stable can help reduce the risk of re-injury.

5. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can develop an individualized program of exercises and therapeutic manual techniques to treat tendonitis of the supraspinous muscle.

Pain and discomfort should be avoided when performing exercises. If an exercise causes increased pain, stop doing it and consult your doctor. Gradually increasing the intensity and volume of exercise will help you achieve the best results and speed up the recovery process.