Tendinitis, commonly known as tendonitis, is the inflammation of a tendon, the robust tissue that connects muscles to bones.
This condition usually arises from overuse or injury during physical activities.
Tendinitis can affect tendons in various body parts, including the heel, shoulder, and elbow.
Tendons are crucial in stabilizing and moving joints, but excessive strain or repetitive movements can lead to inflammation and pain.
Types of Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendinitis: This type affects the tendon connecting the heel to the calf muscle. It is commonly seen in athletes and individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. It leads to pain and stiffness at the back of the heel.
- Supraspinatus Tendinitis: This condition involves the tendon of the supraspinatus muscle in the shoulder. It often causes pain during shoulder movements and may be associated with rotator cuff syndrome.
- Tennis or Golfer’s Elbow: Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) causes pain outside the elbow, while medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow) affects the inside. Both result from repetitive wrist movements.
- de Quervain’s Stenosing Tenosynovitis: This ailment impacts the tendons at the thumb's base, resulting in pain and swelling. It can make thumb movements difficult.
- Trigger Finger: Involves a finger that gets stuck in a bent position due to inflammation and thickening of the tendon sheath, causing a clicking or locking sensation.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Common symptoms of tendinitis include
- Localized pain
- Tenderness
- Swelling
- Grating or catching sensation in the affected area.
Diagnosis usually includes a physical exam where the doctor evaluates tenderness and mobility.
Further imaging tests, such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI, might also be conducted to evaluate tendon damage and inflammation.
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment for tendinitis focuses on reducing pain and inflammation.
Key approaches include:
- Rest: Avoiding activities that exacerbate the symptoms. Immobilizing the affected tendon with a brace or splint may help.
- Hot and Cold Therapy: Applying ice to reduce inflammation and heat to alleviate pain can be effective. Ice is best for recent injuries, while heat may be used for ongoing discomfort.
- Pain Relievers: These medications may helps in relieve pain and reduce swelling. For severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be used.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises for Strengthening and Stretching in which affected tendon can aid in recovery. Physical therapy may also include massage and manipulation.
Prevention strategies include:
- Warming up before physical activities.
- Gradually increasing exercise intensity.
- Maintaining proper form.
- Using suitable equipment.
- Taking frequent breaks from repetitive tasks and strengthening surrounding muscles can also help reduce the risk of developing tendinitis.
Don’t let tendon pain hold you back—seek medical advice if you’re experiencing symptoms of tendinitis to start your path to recovery and relief today.
