Does cortisone injection treat rotator cuff tendinitis?

Rotator cuff tendinitis affects the tendons that guide shoulder movement. Reaching overhead, lying on the painful side, or repeated lifting may aggravate symptoms. Cortisone can dampen local inflammation and create a window in which comfortable movement is easier. It is not a substitute for addressing the activity or movement pattern that is irritating the tendon. Your clinician may also consider whether the symptoms come from a tear, bursitis, or another shoulder condition.

Start with an assessment if pain persists, limits sleep, or reduces shoulder movement. Treatment may include a temporary reduction in aggravating activity, suitable pain relief, and physiotherapy focused on gradual tendon loading and shoulder control. After an injection, follow the advised activity restriction and do not rush back to heavy lifting because pain may improve before the tendon is ready. See [Rotator Cuff Tendinitis](/conditions/rotator-cuff-tendinitis/) and [Cortisone Injection](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/cortisone-injection/).

Seek urgent attention for sudden major weakness, a visible shoulder deformity, or severe pain after an injury. Following an injection, seek care for spreading redness, pus, fever, or pain that becomes markedly worse. These features need assessment rather than another dose of anti-inflammatory medicine.

What is irritating the tendon? Would physiotherapy be appropriate now? Where would the injection be placed? How long should I avoid strenuous shoulder activity?