Tendonitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Tendonitis (also spelled tendinitis) is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon, the thick fibrous cord that connects muscle to bone. It is often caused by repetitive movements, overuse, or sudden injury and commonly affects the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and heels.

Common Types of Tendonitis

1. Rotator Cuff Tendonitis – Affects the shoulder, causing pain and weakness.
2. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) – Affects the outer elbow, common in racquet sports and repetitive gripping activities.
3. Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis) – Affects the inner elbow.
4. Achilles Tendonitis – Affects the Achilles tendon in the back of the ankle.
5. Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper’s Knee) – Affects the knee, common in jump-intensive sports.
6. De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis – Affects the tendons in the thumb and wrist.

Causes of Tendonitis

• Repetitive Motions: Sports, work, or hobbies involving frequent movements.
• Sudden Injury: Trauma or excessive force on a tendon.
• Poor Posture & Technique: Incorrect body mechanics during activities.
• Aging: Tendons lose elasticity and strength over time.
• Medical Conditions: Arthritis, diabetes, or infections can contribute.

Symptoms of Tendonitis

• Pain & Tenderness near the affected tendon.
• Swelling & Warmth in the area.
• Stiffness & Limited Movement after periods of rest.
• Pain Worsens with Movement or specific activities.

Diagnosis

• Physical Exam: Checking for tenderness, swelling, and movement limitations.
• Imaging Tests:
  • X-ray (to rule out fractures).
  • Ultrasound or MRI (to assess tendon damage or inflammation).

Treatment Options

1. Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatments

• Rest: Avoid activities that worsen the condition.
• Ice Therapy: Apply ice packs (15–20 minutes, several times a day) to reduce swelling.
• Compression: Use a brace or wrap for support.
• Elevation: Keep the affected limb elevated to reduce swelling.
• Pain Relief Medications:
  • NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) help with pain and inflammation.
• Physical Therapy:
  • Stretching and strengthening exercises.
  • Ultrasound or shockwave therapy for chronic cases.

2. Advanced Treatments for Severe Cases

• Corticosteroid Injections: Reduce inflammation but should be used cautiously.
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: Promotes healing using the patient’s blood.
• Surgery (Rare Cases):
  • Tendon Repair or Removal of Scar Tissue (for chronic cases).

Prevention of Tendonitis

• Warm-Up & Stretching before exercise or physical activity.
• Maintain Proper Technique in sports and work activities.
• Strengthen Muscles around joints to reduce strain.
• Use Ergonomic Equipment for work and daily activities.
• Take Breaks & Avoid Overuse to prevent repetitive stress injuries.

When to See a Doctor

• Persistent pain despite rest and home treatment.
• Swelling, redness, or warmth in the affected area.
• Difficulty moving the joint or performing daily activities.

With proper care, most cases of tendonitis improve within a few weeks. However, early treatment is key to preventing chronic issues.