How to Address a Shoulder Supraspinatus Tendon Injury?

The supraspinatus muscle is located above the scapular ridge and plays a role in lifting the shoulder. Injuries to the tendons of the supraspinatus muscle in the shoulder joint are clinically common and can be acute or chronic. Both acute and chronic injuries require attention and active treatment. An injury to the tendon of the supraspinatus muscle in the shoulder joint can not only affect our physical health but also potentially impact our daily activities. Therefore, it is essential to seek active treatment for supraspinatus muscle tendon injuries.

1. What to do for supraspinatus muscle tendon injuries? Supraspinatus muscle tendon injuries are caused by trauma to the shoulder joint or degenerative changes in older adults, leading to impingement syndrome and chronic damage to the supraspinatus tendon, also known as rotator cuff injury. Early treatment options include local physical therapy, closed treatment, and oral administration of anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications such as meloxicam and celecoxib. If these treatments are ineffective, surgical intervention under arthroscopy may be considered to explore the extent of the supraspinatus muscle injury and, if necessary, repair the rotator cuff to restore its integrity and functionality.

Early diagnosis and treatment of supraspinatus muscle tendon injuries are crucial to avoid significant pain and limited mobility. If left untreated, patients may experience significant discomfort.

2. How to recover quickly from supraspinatus muscle tendon injuries? Acute injuries are often caused by severe trauma, such as falls from heights, severe traffic accidents, or heavy objects falling on the shoulder joint. Once a supraspinatus muscle tendon injury occurs, it is essential to undergo a thorough examination to determine the extent of the damage. If the tendon damage is severe and significantly impacts shoulder function, surgical intervention may be necessary. The supraspinatus muscle is a critical part of the rotator cuff, and severe damage can significantly affect joint function.

After surgery, immobilization for 4-6 weeks may be required, depending on the severity of the injury. Less severe injuries may require immobilization for 3-4 weeks. After removing the immobilization device, gradual and appropriate rehabilitation exercises for the shoulder joint should be performed, avoiding violent movements and supplemented with anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications.

3. What medications are used for supraspinatus muscle tendon injuries? Oral administration of blood-activating and stasis-resolving medications such as Yunnan Baiyao Capsules, Longxuejie Capsules, and Xianling Gubao Capsules, as well as topical applications of ointments like Yunnan Baiyao Plaster, Shangtong Tiegao, and Goupi Gao, can help promote the absorption and resolution of edema in the supraspinatus muscle tendon, thereby facilitating its repair.