Tendonitis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of tendonitis?

Tendonitis, which is inflammation or irritation of a tendon, typically presents with the following symptoms:

• Pain: The most common symptom is pain at the site of the tendon and surrounding area. The pain often worsens with movement or activity and may be sharp or a dull ache.
• Tenderness: The affected area is usually tender to the touch.
• Swelling: Mild swelling may occur around the tendon, making the area appear enlarged.
• Stiffness: The tendon and the affected joint may feel stiff, especially after periods of inactivity or in the morning.
• Warmth and Redness: The skin over the inflamed tendon may feel warm and look red.
• Loss of Range of Motion: In more severe cases, there may be limited movement in the joint near the affected tendon.
• Crepitus: A grating or crackling sensation may be felt when moving the affected joint, particularly if the inflammation is significant.

These symptoms often develop gradually and can be aggravated by repetitive movements or excessive strain. Tendonitis can occur in various parts of the body, including the shoulder, elbow (tennis or golfer’s elbow), wrist, knee (jumper’s knee), Achilles tendon, and hip.

What are the causes of tendonitis?

Tendonitis is caused by inflammation or irritation of a tendon, usually as a result of repetitive stress, overuse, or injury. Common causes include:

1. Repetitive Movements: Activities that involve repetitive motions, such as typing, throwing, or running, can put continuous strain on tendons, leading to inflammation.
2. Overuse or Overtraining: Engaging in physical activities or sports without sufficient rest or recovery can cause tendonitis, particularly in athletes who frequently use the same muscles and tendons.
3. Sudden Increase in Activity: A rapid change in the intensity, frequency, or duration of physical activity can overload a tendon that is not accustomed to the new level of stress.
4. Poor Technique or Posture: Improper techniques in sports or poor posture during activities can place excessive stress on tendons, contributing to tendonitis.
5. Age-Related Changes: As people age, tendons become less flexible and more prone to injury. Tendonitis is more common in older adults due to these degenerative changes.
6. Injury or Trauma: A sudden injury, such as a fall or direct blow to a tendon, can cause inflammation and lead to tendonitis.
7. Occupational Factors: Jobs that require repetitive motions, such as manual labor, assembly line work, or frequent use of tools, can lead to tendonitis in the hands, wrists, or elbows.
8. Muscle Imbalances: Imbalances in muscle strength or flexibility can lead to uneven strain on tendons, increasing the risk of inflammation.
9. Improper Footwear: Wearing unsupportive shoes during physical activity can lead to tendonitis, especially in the feet or lower legs.
10. Pre-existing Conditions: Certain health conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and gout, can increase the risk of developing tendonitis.
11. Medications: Some medications, particularly certain antibiotics (like fluoroquinolones), have been linked to an increased risk of tendonitis and tendon rupture.

Identifying the underlying cause of tendonitis is important for proper treatment and prevention. Reducing or modifying the activities that trigger inflammation can help manage symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening.

What is the treatment for tendonitis?

The treatment for tendonitis focuses on reducing pain and inflammation, promoting healing, and preventing further injury. Here are the common approaches:

1. Rest and Activity Modification: The most important step in treating tendonitis is to rest the affected tendon by avoiding activities that cause pain or strain. This helps reduce inflammation and prevents further damage.
2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce pain and inflammation, especially in the acute phase of tendonitis.
3. Medications: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe stronger medications if needed.
4. Compression and Elevation: Wrapping the affected area with an elastic bandage and keeping it elevated can help reduce swelling and provide support to the tendon.
5. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can guide you through exercises that strengthen the muscles around the affected tendon, improve flexibility, and correct any biomechanical issues that may have contributed to the tendonitis. Stretching and strengthening exercises are key components of recovery.
6. Heat Therapy: After the initial inflammation has subsided, applying heat to the affected area can help relax and loosen the tissues, improving blood flow to the tendon.
7. Bracing or Splinting: In some cases, a brace or splint may be used to immobilize the affected area and give the tendon time to heal.
8. Ultrasound or Shockwave Therapy: These therapies use sound waves to stimulate healing in the affected tendon and reduce pain. They can be especially helpful for chronic tendonitis.
9. Corticosteroid Injections: If other treatments are not effective, a corticosteroid injection may be used to reduce inflammation and pain. However, repeated injections are generally avoided, as they can weaken the tendon and increase the risk of rupture.
10. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: This treatment involves injecting a concentration of your own platelets into the affected tendon to promote healing. PRP therapy is still being studied but has shown promise in some cases of tendonitis.
11. Surgery: In rare cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, surgery may be required to repair the damaged tendon. Surgery is typically reserved for severe or chronic cases that do not respond to other treatments.
12. Gradual Return to Activity: Once symptoms improve, it is important to gradually return to normal activities to prevent re-injury. A physical therapist can help design a program that allows for a safe return to activity.

Effective treatment of tendonitis involves a combination of these approaches, depending on the severity and location of the condition. Early intervention and adherence to a treatment plan are key to a successful recovery.