Tendinitis can fool you at first because the symptoms may slowly develop. In the meantime, if you stay active, you may risk causing further injury and irritation. See the physicians at Ani Medical Group in Hazlet and Old Bridge, New Jersey, as soon as you suspect a problem as tendinitis may worsen. To learn more about treatment for your tendinitis, call Ani Medical Group or schedule an appointment online today.
What is tendinitis?
Tendons attach muscles to bones for movement of joints. Tendinitis is an inflammation (irritation and swelling) of the tendons. Tendinitis may be the result of an acute injury or may be chronic worsening with time and activity.
Approximately 20 million Americans suffer from tendinitis.
What causes tendinitis?
It is generally caused by overuse or overload. Tendinitis of the upper extremity often occurs in sports that require the arm to be moved in the overhead position repeatedly, such as pitching, overhead lifting heavy, serving the ball in racket sports, and swimming; while tendinitis of the lower extremity is common with sports requiring repetitive jumping, running and pivoting.
What are the symptoms of tendinitis?
The most common sign of tendinitis is pain associated and aggravated by activity. In many cases the pain is relieved with rest but in more severe cases the pain many persist even with inactivity. Chronic inflammation due to repetitive movements or injury may lead to tearing or rupture of the tendon.
Tendinitis commonly affects the joints about the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee and ankle. In severe chronic cases surgical treatment may be necessary.
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
- Wrist Tendinitis
- Patellar Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendinitis
How is tendinitis treated?
Initial treatment consists of rest and avoidance of the inciting activity. Ice is used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Ice should be applied for 10 to 15 minutes every 2 to 3 hours for inflammation and pain and immediately after any activity that aggravates your symptoms. Ice should be applied for the first 72 hours after initial injury.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, or other minor pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, are often recommended. Take these only as directed by your physician. Topical ointments may also be of benefit. Pain relievers may be prescribed as necessary by your physician. Use only as directed and only as much as you need.
Heat may be used before performing stretching and strengthening activities prescribed by your physician, physical therapist, or athletic trainer. Use a heat pack or a warm soak. Do not use heat if inflammation (swelling) is present.
Stretching and strengthening exercises are also important to prevent further injury and expedite the return to one’s desired level of activity. Referral to a physical therapist may be prescribed by your physician.
Corticosteroid injections may also be beneficial but are largely restricted to the upper extremities as steroid injections for lower extremity tendinitis increases the risk of tendon rupture.
Surgeons at Ani Medical Group also perform the minimally invasive Tenex procedure and offer the latest treatments with injection therapy of Orthobiologics such as platelet rich plasma (PRP) and bone marrow stem cells. You may discuss such treatments with your physician to determine whether you are a candidate.
