You look deep in thought for this test.

I have (L) shoulder tendinitis now, unknown if rotor cuff involved or impinged. No MRI done. Diagnosis from sports chiropracter. Going to see ortho. dr. 10/26/10. Would like an MRI. Cause: overuse & overtraining? Tried working around it, however unsuccessful. For some, for those that share my agony, i'm very frustrated & downright depressed...I try to have a positive attitude, humble myself and say that things could be worse in my life; other have it worse. Concerned, which my be a reality, that muscle mass acquired will melt away like butter. Months of heavy, dedicated and loyal lifting down the drain. Looking to reach out to others: Any suggestions for healing, ways to lift, how others rebounded from setbacks, etc.. Thanks Jimmy Davis, Chicago, IL.

I always warm up my R/C's before big lifts. I had tore my right one years back.
Rich Knapp Appleton, WI.

Thank you Rich for your reply. I also warm-up prior to any "big lifts." However, in my case, I believe the cause of shoulder tendinitis is accumulative - from many months of lifting; whereas inflammation starts off small, months go by until this chronic condition becomes full blown. I'm 41 now, and I need to lift in a manner that promotes "injury free" type excercises. I don't know what these are yet, since lifting involves your shoulders in just about every upper extremity workout - either in a primary, secondary or adjunct roles. I've come to know that the shoulder, as it's designed, is a weak link. For now, all upper body workouts have ceased. Working on core and lower extremities now. I will keep you posted. Thanks again for your concern.

I'm 45. I also use AAEFX Joint Rehab and it makes a huge difference.

For those tracking my status - which appears to be a lot, UPDATE: MRI (Lt.) shoulder reveals no damage structurally. Rotator cuffs well intact. Dx. Supraspinatus tendinitis. Today, back in the weight room. Doing rotator cuff excercises, as well stretches, to engage & strengthen all rotator cuffs. I've been working with Richardo "The shoulder doctor" in the weight room. All lifting done light/high reps. Shoulders feel good. The doctor, whom is a god send, has corrected many of my terrible lifting habits, despicable form and my complete disregard to "listen" to my body, which lead to my injury. It will take time, as my shoulders heal, to get back to the heavy weights. My main focus is "injury-prevention." Being a smart lifter. Learning that bodybuilding is a long marathon, NOT A SPRINT. TIP: Always warm-up completely before your lift, I stress completely. Take the necessary time to get the muscles and tendons warmed-up - sounds like injury prevention?? For my many fans out there: "be smart, lift smart." If there is any doubt or a question of your technique, ask a experienced lifter for help or correction. If I can help anyone, heal from shoulder tendinitis, use this blog - I'll share my experience with you. Take Care. Jimmy Davis, Chicago (IL)