Shoulder tendonitis can be frustrating and painful, especially if it limits your ability to do everyday tasks. Whether you are trying to lift a bag or simply reach for something on a shelf, this condition can significantly disrupt your life. Thankfully, physical therapy is a proven method for effective recovery.
If you are wondering how long it takes for shoulder tendonitis to heal with physical therapy and what you can expect during the process, this blog will provide clarity. With help from physical therapists for shoulder tendonitis, you can reduce pain and regain function efficiently.
What Is Shoulder Tendonitis?
Shoulder tendonitis occurs when the tendons in your shoulder become inflamed. These tendons play a vital role in connecting muscles to bones and facilitating movement in the shoulder joint. Overuse, repetitive motions, or sudden injuries are common causes of tendonitis.
You might notice symptoms, such as:
- Pain and swelling in the shoulder joint
- Stiffness that makes movement challenging
- Discomfort when lifting your arm or performing overhead activities
If left untreated, it could worsen over time, making it essential to seek help from a physical therapist for shoulder tendonitis.
Why Choose Physical Therapy for Healing Tendonitis?
Physical therapy aims to reduce inflammation, restore shoulder mobility, and strengthen muscles around the injured tendon. A physical therapist designs personalized treatment plans to help patients recover faster and avoid reinjury.
Benefits of physical therapy for tendonitis include:
- Reducing pain and swelling without medication
- Increasing range of motion in the shoulder joint
- Strengthening the muscles around the shoulder for better support
- Teaching proper body mechanics to prevent future injuries
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Healing times for shoulder tendonitis can vary based on the severity of your condition, your overall health, and how closely you follow your physical therapy program. Below is a general timeline to help you set expectations.
Mild Tendonitis
If you have mild shoulder tendonitis, you could notice significant improvement within 2-4 weeks. This is often the case when the injury is caught early and addressed promptly with physical therapy exercises.
Moderate Tendonitis
For moderate cases, recovery typically takes a little longer. This level of tendonitis may require not just stretching and strengthening exercises but also manual therapy techniques from your physical therapist.
Severe Tendonitis
Severe cases can take anywhere from 3-6 months to fully heal. Tendon tears or chronic inflammation often need an extended rehabilitation plan that involves more intensive physical therapy sessions and possibly other medical interventions.
Remember, every case is unique, and recovery durations may differ. Your physical therapist will assess your progress regularly and make adjustments as needed.
What Can Impact Healing Time?
Not everyone heals at the same rate. Several factors can affect how quickly shoulder tendonitis resolves, such as:
- Severity of the tendonitis at the time treatment begins
- Age, as older individuals may heal more slowly
- Overall Health, including conditions like diabetes or arthritis that may interfere with healing
- Lifestyle Choices, such as smoking, which hinders blood flow to tendons
- Adherence to Rest and physical therapy guidelines
Your physical therapist may adjust your treatment to address these challenges and keep your recovery on track.
What to Expect During Physical Therapy
When you visit a physical therapist for shoulder tendonitis, your sessions may include the following:
Initial Assessment
Your therapist will conduct a thorough evaluation of your shoulder, including strength, range of motion, and pain level. They will also ask about your daily activities to better understand the root cause of your tendonitis.
Pain Management Techniques
Your treatment plan will focus on reducing inflammation and pain. This may include:
- Ice or heat therapy
- Ultrasound therapy
- Electrical stimulation (TENS)
Strengthening and Stretching Exercises
Your therapist will guide you through exercises designed to restore mobility and build muscle strength. Common exercises for shoulder tendonitis include:
- Pendulum swings
- Shoulder wall walks
- Internal and external rotations using resistance bands
Education and Prevention
A critical aspect of physical therapy is teaching you how to prevent future injuries. You will learn proper posture, lifting techniques, and warm-up routines that minimize strain on your shoulder tendons.
Tips to Speed Up Recovery
While physical therapy plays a central role in healing, there are additional steps you can take at home to promote quicker recovery:
- Follow Your Rehab Plan: Adhere to the exercises and recommendations given by your physical therapist for shoulder tendonitis.
- Rest When Needed: Avoid activities that worsen your symptoms, especially those with repetitive shoulder motions.
- Use Pain Management Tools: Apply ice packs to reduce swelling or use over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen (Advil), if recommended by your healthcare provider.
- Maintain Proper Posture: Sit and stand with good posture to reduce unnecessary strain on your shoulders.
Get Started with a Physical Therapist for Shoulder Tendonitis Pain in Naples, FL
Healing from shoulder tendonitis takes time, but recovery is well within reach with help from a qualified physical therapist for shoulder tendonitis. Do not allow shoulder pain to slow you down or limit your life any longer.
At Joint Replacement Institute, we specialize in personalized care for musculoskeletal injuries. Our team of expert orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists is ready to help you reduce pain, improve function, and get back to doing what you love.
Schedule your consultation today by calling (239) 261-2663 or using our appointment request form. Make your first step toward recovery today!
