What is Tendonitis?
Tendonitis (also spelled tendinitis) is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon, the thick fibrous cords that attach muscles to bones. This condition causes pain and tenderness just outside a joint.
Common Types
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Rotator Cuff Tendonitis: Affects the shoulder
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Tennis Elbow: Lateral epicondylitis
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Golfer's Elbow: Medial epicondylitis
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Achilles Tendonitis: Affects the heel area
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De Quervain's Tenosynovitis: Affects the thumb side of the wrist
Symptoms
- Dull, aching pain
- Tenderness to touch
- Mild swelling
- Pain that worsens with movement
- Stiffness in the morning
- Restricted range of motion
Causes
Primary Factors
- Repetitive motion
- Sudden injury
- Age-related degeneration
- Poor posture
- Sports activities
Risk Factors
- Age (more common over 40)
- Certain occupations
- Sports participation
- Poor training techniques
Treatment Options
Conservative Treatment
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Rest (RICE Protocol):
- Rest
- Ice
- Compression
- Elevation
-
Medications:
- NSAIDs
- Topical anti-inflammatory gels
-
Physical Therapy:
- Stretching exercises
- Strengthening exercises
- Manual therapy
Advanced Treatment
- Corticosteroid injections
- Platelet-rich plasma therapy
- Surgery (in severe cases)
Prevention
- Proper warm-up before exercise
- Use of correct techniques during activities
- Regular stretching
- Ergonomic workspace setup
- Adequate rest between activities
When to See a Doctor
- Pain persists beyond a few days
- Severe pain or swelling
- Unable to move the affected joint
- Pain interferes with sleep or daily activities