When supraspinatus tendinopathy needs imagingSupraspinatus tendinopathy is typically diagnosed without imaging; scans are warranted only when symptoms persist after six weeks of conservative treatment, a full-thickness tear is suspected, or surgery is planned.Supraspinatus tendinopathy is typically diagnosed without imaging; scans are warranted only when symptoms persist after six weeks of conservative treatment, a full-thickness tear is suspected, or surgery is planned.
Which specialist treats supraspinatus tendinopathyThe painful arc — pain appearing between 60° and 120° of shoulder abduction — signals supraspinatus tendinopathy; physiotherapy is the primary treatment, surgery only when conservative care fails.The painful arc — pain appearing between 60° and 120° of shoulder abduction — signals supraspinatus tendinopathy; physiotherapy is the primary treatment, surgery only when conservative care fails.
Who treats supraspinatus tendinopathy and when to scanSupraspinatus tendinopathy presents as gradually worsening outer-shoulder pain, worse with overhead reaching. A load-related tendon change distinct from structural tears, it resolves with physiotherapy in primary care for most patients; imaging and specialist assessment follow only when conservative care has not succeeded.Supraspinatus tendinopathy presents as gradually worsening outer-shoulder pain, worse with overhead reaching. A load-related tendon change distinct from structural tears, it resolves with physiotherapy in primary care for most patients; imaging and specialist assessment follow only when conservative care has not succeeded.