Shoulder pain is one of the most common problems people bring to their doctors. Leading to about 4.5 million office visits every year in the United States and costing nearly $3 billion annually.
Studies show a lifetime prevalence of 67%, with most cases linked to rotator cuff issues such as shoulder tendonitis and impingement syndrome.
Shoulder tendonitis is also age-dependent. Research shows the prevalence is only 5–10% in people under 20, but it increases to more than 60% in adults over 80.
At The Disc Chiropractic in Wheat Ridge, I focus on non-surgical treatments that address these tendon problems early.
What Is Shoulder Tendonitis?
Shoulder tendonitis usually involves the rotator cuff tendons, these tendons anchor the shoulder muscles to the upper arm bone (humerus) and keep the joint stable when you perform actions such as raising your arms.
Patients typically feel pain along the front or side of the shoulder, especially when reaching overhead or behind the back. If irritation continues, the tendon can undergo tendinopathy, where the fibers begin to degenerate and lose strength, and in some cases progress to partial tears.
It is often thought of or confused with calcific tendonitis, however both are very different. Instead of just inflammation, deposits of calcium crystals form inside the tendon fibers themselves.
Common Causes We See in Wheat Ridge, CO
Impingement Syndrome
One of the most common causes of shoulder tendonitis is subacromial impingement syndrome. This occurs when the supraspinatus tendon of the rotator cuff becomes pinched under the acromion, the bony arch of the shoulder blade.
Every time the arm is lifted overhead, the tendon is compressed against the shoulder blades leading to inflammation, swelling, and eventually tendon degeneration.
Poor Posture
Forward-rounded shoulders and a protruding head position shift the shoulder blade out of its ideal alignment. This reduces the space in the subacromial region, forcing the rotator cuff tendons to work under extra tension.
Over time, that strain contributes to irritation, microtears, and pain not only with overhead sports, but also with daily activities like reaching into cabinets or lifting light objects.
Shoulder Trauma
A history of injury, such as a shoulder dislocation, fracture, or severe sprain, can leave behind scar tissue that alters joint mechanics and leaves imbalances. When the shoulder no longer moves as it should, the rotator cuff tendons must compensate to stabilize the joint.
This unintentional overuse makes them vulnerable to inflammation and wear, which explains why patients with old injuries often develop tendonitis years later.
How We Treat Shoulder Tendonitis at The Disc Chiropractic
When someone comes in with shoulder tendonitis, my goal is twofold: calm the pain and fix what’s causing the tendon to flare up.
Chiropractic Adjustments
I use precise and gentle adjustments to the shoulder, in particular the rotator cuffs. This restores proper motion and takes pressure off the tendons. When the joints are finally moving the way it should, the tendons aren’t being pinched or overloaded, and patients see greater freedom in their shoulders.
Shockwave Therapy
I use the Intelect RPW 2 for shockwave therapy to send acoustic waves into the rotator cuff tendons. This breaks down scar tissue and stimulates new blood flow to the area.
Better circulation brings oxygen and nutrients that promote tendon healing and calm the inflammation that keeps shoulder pain lingering.
Therapeutic Exercises
I teach focused strengthening exercises for the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers, along with stretches to restore balance. These exercises protect the tendon by supporting the shoulder blade and improving mechanics during movements.
FAQs About Shoulder Tendonitis
How is tendonitis different from a rotator cuff tear?
Shoulder tendonitis means the tendon is irritated and inflamed, usually from overuse or impingement, but the fibers are still intact. A rotator cuff tear is different because the tendon has actually frayed or pulled away from the bone. Partial tears affect only part of the tendon, while full-thickness tears involve a complete detachment.
Can chiropractic care help if I’ve had shoulder tendonitis for years?
Yes. Chronic tendonitis often involves ongoing inflammation, scar tissue, and poor joint mechanics. Even in cases where pain has lasted for years, correcting the way the shoulder moves allows the tendon to heal naturally.
How long does it take to see results from shoulder tendonitis treatment?
Most patients with mild tendonitis begin to notice relief within four to six weeks of consistent care. Those with chronic cases, where degeneration and scar tissue are present, usually need three to six months for long-term results.
Do I need an MRI or X-ray before starting treatment?
Not usually. Shoulder tendonitis can almost always be diagnosed through a careful history and physical exam. Imaging such as MRI or ultrasound is only needed if symptoms last longer than six months without improvement.
What movements should I avoid until my shoulder improves?
Overhead lifting, heavy pushing or pulling, throwing sports, and reaching behind the back are the motions that most often aggravate tendonitis. Once the inflammation has calmed and strength begins to return, these movements can be added back in gradually and in a controlled way so the tendon isn’t stressed before it’s ready.
Don’t Live with Chronic Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain doesn’t have to keep you from working, sleeping, or enjoying the activities you love. At The Disc Chiropractic in Wheat Ridge, I provide non-surgical care designed to calm irritation, restore strength, and help your shoulder move the way it should again.
Take the first step with our $97 New Patient Special. You’ll leave your first visit knowing what’s causing your pain and what it will take to get lasting relief.
Book an Appointment Now or Call: 720-573-4910 to get started.