Shoulder-Tendonitis-in-Tennis

Shoulder Tendonitis in Tennis & Badminton Players: Causes and Preventive Exercises

Pain Management| Chiropractic Care| Injury Treatment
May 23, 2025•2 min read

Shoulder Tendonitis in Tennis & Badminton Players: Causes and Preventive Exercises

Introduction
Tennis and badminton are fast-paced sports that demand quick arm movements, repeated overhead shots, and sudden bursts of power. While these activities are excellent for cardiovascular health and coordination, they can place tremendous stress on the shoulder—especially the tendons that keep it stable. One of the most common overuse injuries in racquet sports is shoulder tendonitis, also known as rotator cuff tendonitis.

Let’s explore what causes this condition and how players can prevent it with proper exercises and care.

What is Shoulder Tendonitis?

Shoulder tendonitis is an inflammation or irritation of the tendons in the shoulder, typically involving the rotator cuff. These tendons help stabilize the shoulder joint and support arm movements. Repetitive overhead motion can lead to micro-tears, swelling, and pain.

Common Causes in Tennis and Badminton Players

  1. Repetitive Overhead Motions
    Serving, smashing, and overhead clears involve forceful, repetitive arm movements that can strain the rotator cuff.

  2. Poor Technique
    Incorrect grip, body positioning, or swing technique may increase load on the shoulder tendons.

  3. Muscle Imbalance
    Weakness in shoulder stabilizers (like the scapular muscles) can lead to overcompensation by the rotator cuff.

  4. Lack of Warm-Up
    Starting intense play without warming up increases the risk of injury.

  5. Overtraining
    Playing too frequently without sufficient rest can lead to chronic inflammation and eventual tendon damage.

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Dull, aching pain in the front or side of the shoulder

  • Pain when lifting the arm overhead or behind the back

  • Weakness or stiffness in the shoulder

  • Discomfort that worsens at night or after playing

Preventive Exercises and Tips

Regular shoulder care can significantly reduce the risk of tendonitis. Here are some exercises and tips recommended by our orthopedic team:

1. Shoulder Warm-Up Routine (5-10 minutes)

  • Arm circles (small to large)

  • Shoulder shrugs

  • Resistance band shoulder rotations

2. Strengthening Exercises

  • Scapular Retractions: Pinch your shoulder blades together to strengthen back muscles.

  • Internal and External Rotations: Use resistance bands to build rotator cuff strength.

  • Wall Angels: Improves posture and activates upper back stabilizers.

3. Stretching

  • Cross-body Shoulder Stretch

  • Sleeper Stretch (lying on your side and rotating the arm downward)

4. General Tips

  • Always warm up and cool down properly

  • Improve form and technique with coaching

  • Rest adequately between training sessions

  • Apply ice after intense games if discomfort arises

When to Seek Medical Help

If pain persists beyond a few days, worsens with movement, or disrupts sleep, it's time to see an orthopedic specialist. Early treatment can prevent the injury from becoming chronic or requiring surgical intervention.

Conclusion
Shoulder tendonitis doesn't have to sideline your game. With the right preventive strategies and awareness, you can continue to enjoy tennis or badminton without risking long-term shoulder damage. At our clinic, we offer expert assessments, personalized rehab plans, and guidance for sports injury prevention.

Book an appointment today to keep your shoulder strong and your game pain-free!

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