What is Tendinitis?
Tendinitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon, which is the thick, fibrous cord that attaches muscle to bone. It commonly occurs around joints like the shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee, or ankle.
This condition typically results from overuse, repetitive motion, or injury. It can cause pain and tenderness near a joint and may interfere with normal movement or activity.
What Are the Symptoms of Tendinitis?
Symptoms can develop gradually or suddenly, depending on the cause and severity of the inflammation.
Common Symptoms:
- Pain at the site of the tendon and surrounding area
- Tenderness, especially when moving the affected joint
- Swelling and mild warmth in the area
- Decreased range of motion
- A grating or crackling sensation when moving the tendon
Pain often worsens with activity and improves with rest.
What Causes Tendinitis?
Tendinitis is often caused by repetitive movements or sudden injury. It can also be related to aging or inflammatory conditions.
Common Causes and Risk Factors:
- Overuse from sports or physical labor
- Poor posture or improper technique during exercise
- Aging, which makes tendons less flexible
- Sudden increase in physical activity
- Repetitive motions (e.g., typing, painting, gardening)
- Medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes
Certain activities and occupations that involve repetitive actions increase the risk.
How is Tendinitis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually made through a physical exam and a review of symptoms. Your doctor may press on the affected area or ask you to move the joint to assess pain and function.
Diagnostic Tests May Include:
- Physical examination
- X-rays to rule out fractures or arthritis
- Ultrasound to evaluate tendon structure
- MRI for more detailed imaging in severe or chronic cases
How is Tendinitis Treated?
The goal of treatment is to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and restore function.
First-Line Treatments:
- Resting the affected tendon
- Ice application to reduce pain and swelling
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen, naproxen)
- Elevation of the affected area
- Compression with wraps or braces
Additional Treatments:
- Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the tendon
- Corticosteroid injections for persistent inflammation
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections in some cases
- Surgery (rarely needed, for severe or non-responsive cases)
Most people recover fully with conservative treatment.
Complications of Tendinitis
If left untreated or if the tendon is continuously overused, tendinitis can lead to more serious issues.
Potential Complications:
- Tendon rupture (partial or complete tear)
- Chronic tendinitis leading to long-term pain
- Reduced joint mobility or stiffness
- Tendinosis (degeneration of the tendon without inflammation)
Living with Tendinitis
Proper self-care and preventive strategies can help manage and reduce the risk of tendinitis.
Tips for Managing Tendinitis:
- Avoid repetitive movements that strain the tendon
- Warm up before exercise and stretch afterward
- Use ergonomic tools or supports during activities
- Maintain good posture and technique in sports or work
- Follow prescribed rehab or therapy plans