Tendonitis can affect any of the body’s tendons, but is most common where repetitive movements occur. These include the elbows, wrists, shoulders and knees. Tendonitis pain often is associated with specific sports. The most well-known is probably tennis elbow which causes pain in a tendon near the elbow.
Other sports requiring repetitive motions — golf, running, swimming, etc. — can cause pain in related tendons near joints. Tendons are particularly susceptible to stress injury because they have a poorer blood supply compared to muscles.
Tendonitis Pain can be Mysterious
The pain associated with tendonitis can range from mild to severe and may be present when the affected tendon is at rest. Tendonitis pain may or may not be absent when a person is involved in an activity. If the tendon hurts during an activity it is often severe enough to interfere with continued movement of the affected area.
Swelling in the affected area may or may not be visible even though the region may be extremely tender to touch or motion. Pain and inflammation may extend over an area that is larger than the involved tendon. Also, tendonitis may surprise sufferers because it may affect tendons in areas not usually associated with tendonitis, like the ankle or fingers.
Shoveling dirt, for example, can cause ankle tendonitis as a person rotates on a stationary foot for a long period of time or a shorter period over several days. In such a case, the sufferer may not understand why the ankle is involved because the motion of the ankle is not noticed.
Tendonitis is a Common Injury but not Everyone Gets It
Some people as a result of the individual configuration of bones and tendons may never experience tendonitis. Others may be unable to participate in certain activities without pain. One risk factor for tendonitis is age, which tends to bring on a loss of flexibility. Also, people who are not accustomed to vigorous exercise may be more prone.
Tendonitis is more common in people who participate frequently in repetitive motions required in a particular sport, job, or common household activity. But repetition does not guarantee that a person will have an inflamed tendon. Individual fitness and physiology are important.
Diagnosis of Tendonitis Is Important
Pain that will not go away calls for an examination by a doctor, especially pain that is unusually intense and sudden. But there are a few things to try when the condition begins if the pain is intermittent and tolerable.
- Be mindful of recent activities involving the affected area. If a person has been involved in a repetitive activity, stopping the activity may cause pain and/or swelling to stop, although several days of rest or longer may be required.
- The pain from tendonitis is at or near a joint, but may be somewhat generalized around the joint. It may come and go at odd times. Gentle prodding may help locate a tendon involved.
- Notice the type of pain.Tendonitis pain is often a burning, stinging pain but may involve a more familiar soreness. Tenderness to the touch is common, as is swelling.
Relief can often be obtained with common pain medications like ibuprofen, naproxen, or Aspirin. Ice packs are also effective in reducing symptoms. However, medications can have side effects — especially when used over a long period. Pain relievers may help but do not cure tendonitis.
Proper Treatment of Tendonitis is Necessary to Avoid Complications
If tendonitis is not properly diagnosed and treated the sufferer runs a risk of more severe injury to a tendon, such as a ruptured tendon which may require surgery. If relief cannot be quickly obtained with rest and periodic use of ice packs then it is time for a doctor’s opinion.
Treatment typically involves more rest, ice, and pain relievers. For tendonitis involving a knee or ankle, elevation may be advised. In stubborn cases, the patient may be asked to assess how they can perform the suspected motion in a better way. Exercise to strengthen associated muscles may be advised.
In some cases a brace or wrap may be prescribed to properly reposition the tendons during the activity. In rare cases, surgery may be required if some abnormal or otherwise untreatable structural problem exists.
Tendonitis is a chronic pain caused by irritation and swelling of a tendon which is usually near a joint. The pain is often a stinging, burning discomfort that comes and goes, or it may be constant and accompanied by swelling.
Tendonitis is usually treated successfully with rest and anti-inflammatory medications. Age is a risk factor for tendonitis as are activities requiring repetitive motion.
Sources:
- "The basics of Tendonitis Treatment," etendonitistreatment.com. (Accessed May 4, 2011)
- "Diagnose and Treat Tendonitis," itendonitis.com. (Accessed May 4, 2011)
Disclaimer: This article is presented for information only. People who suspect they have the disorder described here are advised to seek a health professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Harvey Craft - I am a retired educator with diverse experience. I read anything science, education, and history. I write to share what I learn.
