Tendinitis is a common condition that involves the inflammation of a tendon. Tendons are tough, fibrous cords that connect muscles to bones. They help your muscles move your bones. Tendinitis can occur in any tendon, but it’s most common in the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and heels.
Causes of Tendinitis
Tendinitis is usually caused by overuse or repetitive motions. This can happen from activities such as:
- Playing sports, especially those that involve throwing, overhead motions, or running
- Certain jobs, such as carpentry, painting, or cleaning
- Poor posture
Other factors that can increase your risk of tendinitis include:
- Age: Tendons become less flexible as you age, making them more susceptible to tears.
- Certain diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout
- Sudden increase in activity level
Symptoms of Tendinitis
The most common symptom of tendinitis is pain in the affected area. The pain is often described as a dull ache or burning sensation. The pain may be worse when you move the affected joint or when you press on the tendon.
Other symptoms of tendinitis can include:
- Tenderness
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Weakness
Diagnosis of Tendinitis
There is no single test to diagnose tendinitis. Your doctor will usually be able to diagnose the condition based on your symptoms and a physical examination. In some cases, your doctor may order an X-ray or MRI to rule out other possible causes of your pain.
Treatment of Tendinitis
The most common treatment for tendinitis is rest. You may also need to apply ice to the affected area for 20-30 minutes at a time, several times a day. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can also help to relieve pain and inflammation.
In some cases, your doctor may recommend physical therapy to help strengthen the muscles around the affected tendon. Physical therapy can also help to improve your flexibility and range of motion.
If other treatments don’t work, your doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to repair a damaged tendon.
Prevention of Tendinitis
There are a number of things you can do to help prevent tendinitis, such as:
- Warming up before you exercise and cooling down afterwards
- Stretching regularly
- Using proper form when exercising or performing activities
- Taking breaks from activities that cause pain
- Strengthening the muscles around the affected joint
- Maintaining a healthy weight
If you experience any pain in your tendons, it’s important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and treatment plan. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent the condition from worsening.