How long does physiotherapy take to work for rotator cuff tendinitis?

Rotator cuff tendinitis, also called tendinopathy, can cause pain when reaching, lifting or lying on the shoulder. Tendons respond to a suitable training load, but too much too soon can irritate symptoms. Early treatment may address posture, shoulder-blade movement and comfortable range. Later sessions usually build the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles so the shoulder can tolerate work, sport and overhead tasks. Sleep, repeated daily movements and the duration of symptoms can influence the pace.

Temporarily reduce the movements that clearly provoke pain, but keep safe shoulder motion rather than holding the arm still. Complete the prescribed exercises consistently and increase resistance only when the current level is tolerated. Adjust reaching height, carrying technique or workstation position if these repeatedly flare symptoms. Tell your therapist about night pain, painful clicking, neck symptoms or weakness so the plan can be checked and other causes considered.

Arrange review for sudden loss of shoulder strength, inability to raise the arm after an injury, marked swelling or a new deformity. Seek urgent care for severe chest pain, breathing difficulty or neurological symptoms. If pain is progressively worsening, regularly wakes you despite adjustments, or does not respond to a planned programme, contact your clinician for reassessment.

Which movements should I modify first? How much discomfort is acceptable during strengthening? When should I progress resistance or overhead work? Could neck or nerve irritation be contributing to my symptoms?