Quick Summary
Shoulder tendonitis is irritation of the tendons around the shoulder — most often the rotator cuff — usually caused by repetitive or overhead loading.
Our physiotherapists in New Malden combine hands-on manual therapy, a progressive exercise programme and, where indicated, radial shockwave therapy with the Swiss Storz Medical MASTERPULS device. Research suggests most patients improve within 6–12 weeks of structured rehabilitation; when shockwave is indicated, a typical course is 3–6 sessions.
What Is Shoulder Tendonitis?
Shoulder tendonitis describes pain and irritation arising from the tendons of the shoulder, most commonly the rotator cuff — the group of four muscles and tendons (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis and teres minor) that stabilise the joint. It sits within the broader group known as rotator cuff-related shoulder pain, which accounts for the majority of shoulder pain diagnoses seen in primary care.
Although the name “tendonitis” implies inflammation, modern research shows that persistent tendon pain is usually driven by overload and gradual tendon change — a process called tendinopathy — rather than active inflammation (Cook & Purdam, British Journal of Sports Medicine, 2009). Early or acute overload may involve a genuinely reactive response, while longer-standing cases reflect structural change in the tendon. We keep the familiar name because it is what most people search for, but our treatment approach is based on this modern tendinopathy model, which emphasises load management and progressive strengthening.
This page covers general overuse tendon irritation of the shoulder. Where a more specific diagnosis applies — such as a rotator cuff tear, shoulder impingement, calcific tendinitis, biceps tendinopathy or frozen shoulder — our physiotherapists will identify this during assessment and tailor your plan accordingly.
Do You Experience These Symptoms?
✓ Pain at the front or outer upper arm, often a dull ache that can spread towards the elbow
✓ A painful arc — pain when raising your arm to shoulder height, especially overhead
✓ Pain when reaching behind your back, lifting or carrying out overhead activities
✓ Night pain, particularly when lying on the affected shoulder
✓ Weakness or a feeling that the arm may give way when lifting or rotating
✓ Gradual onset that builds over weeks rather than a single sudden injury
✓ Stiffness or reduced range when the shoulder is used repetitively
These symptoms can be treated.
The sooner you begin, the better your chances of a smoother recovery.
What Causes Shoulder Tendonitis?
• Repetitive and overhead loading
Repeated overhead reaching, lifting or throwing loads the rotator cuff tendons faster than they can adapt. Overhead sports and occupations such as painting, construction or shelf-stacking are common triggers.
• Sudden increases in activity
A rapid rise in training volume, a house move or a burst of DIY can overload a tendon that is not conditioned for it. This kind of load spike is one of the most common triggers of reactive tendon pain.
• Age-related tendon change
Tendon quality gradually declines with age, and research suggests the risk of rotator cuff tendinopathy rises significantly after 50 (Leong et al., Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, 2019). Age-related change makes the tendon less tolerant of load and slower to recover.
• Metabolic and lifestyle factors
Diabetes is associated with a higher risk of rotator cuff tendinopathy, and smoking, raised cholesterol and obesity are linked with poorer tendon health. These factors can slow healing and are considered in your treatment plan.
• Biomechanical factors
Poor shoulder blade control, muscle imbalance and postural habits can concentrate stress on the cuff tendons. Addressing these contributors helps prevent symptoms from returning.
How We Treat Shoulder Tendonitis at J&J Therapy
Hands-On Manual Therapy
Our HCPC-registered physiotherapists use hands-on techniques — including soft-tissue work, joint mobilisation and thoracic-spine mobilisation — to reduce pain, improve movement and help you engage with active rehabilitation. Evidence shows manual therapy works best when combined with exercise, so we use it as a bridge to loading rather than a stand-alone fix.
Shockwave Therapy*
Swiss Storz Medical MASTERPULS to stimulate collagen repair, boost local blood flow and modulate pain in the affected shoulder tendons. Non-invasive, evidence-based. Typically 3–6 sessions.
Targeted Exercise Programme
A progressive, individualised loading programme is the cornerstone of care for shoulder tendon pain. Our physiotherapists design a targeted programme — beginning with pain-settling and isometric work where needed, then building through progressive resistance and rotator cuff and shoulder blade strengthening. We combine supervised sessions with a home programme, because consistent loading over several weeks is what drives lasting recovery.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
While most symptoms are not serious, urgent medical attention is required if you experience any of the following:
Sudden, significant weakness or an inability to actively raise your arm after an injury — this may indicate an acute rotator cuff tear and needs urgent assessment
A hot, red, swollen and painful shoulder with fever or feeling generally unwell — a possible joint infection requiring same-day medical care
A new, unexplained shoulder lump or swelling, a history of cancer, or unexplained weight loss or night sweats — requires prompt medical review
Shoulder pain after significant trauma with visible deformity or loss of movement — a possible fracture or dislocation
FAQs About Shoulder Tendonitis
Is shoulder tendonitis the same as a rotator cuff tear?
No. Tendonitis (tendinopathy) is irritation and overload of the tendon, whereas a tear is a structural break in the tendon fibres. They can overlap, which is why an accurate physiotherapy assessment matters.
How long does recovery take?
Research suggests most people improve within 6–12 weeks of a structured exercise-based programme, though tendon recovery can take longer in chronic cases. Addressing the underlying load and strength issues is key to preventing symptoms from returning.
Does shockwave therapy work for shoulder tendonitis?
Research suggests radial shockwave therapy may help reduce pain and improve function in shoulder tendon problems (Xue et al., BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 2024). It is non-invasive, and our physiotherapists typically deliver 3–6 sessions alongside your exercise programme.
Do I need a scan?
Usually not. Shoulder tendonitis is diagnosed clinically, and imaging is reserved for cases that do not respond to treatment, when a tear is suspected, or when red flags are present.
Can I keep exercising?
Often yes — relative rest from clearly aggravating movements helps, but complete rest is rarely needed. Our physiotherapists will guide you on safe, progressive loading.
This page is for general information only and does not replace professional medical advice.
Reviewed by Lavya Arigalayan, MSc, HCPC Registered Physiotherapist.
Last reviewed:
2026년 8월 20일