Tendonitis

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Tendonitis is a common condition where a tendon - the tissue connecting muscle to bone becomes inflamed, causing acute swelling, limited movement, and pain. Just about any area of the body can be affected by tendonitis, so it is usually referred to along with the affected body part (i.e. Achilles’ tendonitis or patellar tendonitis). Tendonitis is most common around the wrist, elbow, shoulder, knee, and above the heel, but it can develop anywhere under the right conditions.

Symptoms of tendonitis

Swelling, pain, redness, and limited motion at and around the tendon are the usual symptoms. Inflammation and pain typically become obvious during an activity, but both may become more pronounced afterwards. In some cases, particularly involving the shoulder, a loss of motion may occur.

Causes of tendonitis

Most cases of tendonitis are caused by repetitive strain to the tendon. Many factory and assembly line workers develop this condition, as do athletes, musicians, or anyone whose occupation requires repetitious movement. If the muscles and tendons are not properly warmed up and stretched, any sort of movement can cause a flare-up, regardless of the amount of weight being moved or the intensity of the activity. Other common causes include age-related factors and previous injury to the tendon or surrounding tissues. Diseases and anatomical deformities may also lead to tendonitis, but are fairly rare.

Treatment

Stopping the activity that causes the inflammation is the first step in treating tendonitis. In most cases, splints, braces, hot/cold treatments, anti-inflammatory medications, and rest are enough to get rid of the symptoms. Therapy and corticosteroid injections may be recommended in more extreme cases. Surgery may be indicated if there appears to be a danger of tendon rupture.

Making changes in your routine will be crucial. Our doctors will evaluate your situation and make recommendations that will enable you to return to your regular activities. Proper stretching and warm-up routines, and frequent breaks are usually enough to prevent future flare-ups.

If you live in the Chattanooga, Tennessee area and are suffering from tendonitis please contact our hand doctor at the Hayes Hand Center today.