Tendonitis

Key Points

Overview

Tendonitis is a condition where a tendon, the strong cord connecting muscle to bone, becomes swollen and inflamed after an injury. This inflammation can lead to pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the affected joint. Tendonitis can occur in various parts of the body, including the knees, elbows, and shoulders. This condition is often triggered by sudden, sharp movements or repetitive activities, such as certain sports or work tasks. Poor posture or incorrect technique during physical activities can also contribute to its development. While it can be painful, mild cases typically improve within a few weeks with proper self-care. Management usually begins with resting the injured area, applying ice, and providing support. For more persistent or severe symptoms, medical professionals may recommend pain relief medication, physiotherapy, or in rare cases, more advanced treatments like steroid injections or surgery.

Signs and Symptoms

• Pain in the tendon, worse with movement
• Difficulty moving the affected joint
• Grating or crackling sensation when moving
• Swelling, sometimes with heat or redness
• Sudden, severe pain with a popping sound (possible rupture)

Things That Increase the Risk

• Sudden, sharp movements
• Repetitive exercise or activities
• Poor posture or technique during activity
• Overexercising tired muscles
• Starting new sports without training
• Performing the same repetitive exercises

Diagnosis

• Review of patient symptoms and medical history
• Physical examination of the affected area
• Assessment of joint movement and tenderness

Treatment & Management

• Resting the injured tendon for 2-3 days
• Applying ice packs to the affected area
• Using elastic bandages or soft braces for support
• Over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., paracetamol, ibuprofen)
• Topical ibuprofen gel
• Physiotherapy for persistent pain or limited movement
• Steroid injections for short-term pain relief
• Surgery for severe cases or ruptured tendons

Prevention

• Warm up before exercising
• Gently stretch after physical activity
• Wear supportive shoes or insoles
• Take regular breaks from repetitive tasks
• Avoid overexercising tired muscles
• Gradually train for new sports or activities
• Vary exercise routines to avoid repetitive strain

Related Diseases

• Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)
• Tendon Rupture
• Bursitis
• Arthritis

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Tendonitis:

Surgical Options

Learn about surgical procedures available for Tendonitis: