Tendonitis is an inflammation of a tendon. Tendons are bands of strong connective tissue which attach muscle to bone. The symptoms of tendonitis include pain and swelling, but may also include arthritis or infection. Tendonitis is usually a type of overuse injury as the tendon is repeatedly strained until tiny tears form. The areas which are most prone to tendonitis include the shoulder, wrist, knee, shin, and heels. Other causes of tendonitis include calcium deposits along the tendon at the site of insertion; bone spurs on the heels, running on hard surfaces, or obesity which can put excessive pressure on the tendons of the legs.
Tendons are a tough band of fibrous tissue that connects the muscle to the bone, and allows for the muscles to stretch and move while connecting the force of any action taken by the limb to the bone.
When a tendon becomes inflamed, the main symptom of tendonitis is pain. There may be quite a bit of pain experienced when trying to lift or move the injured area. Another symptom of tendonitis which may be experienced is redness and swelling of the area, plus tenderness when touched. It is also possible for the tendon to be separated from the muscle which can then only be realigned though surgery. Regardless of the symptoms of tendonitis, it is best to treat it right away to prevent and reduce any further injury. Tendonitis is found to be usually brought on by age. This is because as the tendons lose their elasticity, they are more prone to injury.
The most common causes of tendonitis are strain, over exertion, repetitive movements, and sudden, unaccustomed movements. Tendonitis is most common in seniors and middle aged people as the tendons of older individuals lack the elasticity of younger people and have sustained hundreds of microscopic tears due to daily wear and tear over the years. There are certain diseases that can cause tendonitis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, Reiter’s Syndrome, lupus, and diabetes. Other common types of tendonitis include rotator cuff tendonitis, Achilles tendonitis, and flexor digital tenosynovitis which is also called trigger finger. Serious complications of tendonitis may include muscle wasting and disability. The shoulder is the most vulnerable joint as it can freeze up, a condition usually known as “frozen shoulder.” In serious cases, the rotator cuff tendons can tear, which may lead to prolonged weakness and pain within the shoulder.
Because most cases of tendonitis are caused by overuse, the best treatment is prevention. It is important to avoid or modify the activities that cause the problem. Underlying conditions such s improper posture or poor technique in sports or work must be corrected.
It is important to take all activities slow at first and gradually build up the activity level. Using limited force and limited repetitions are important and it is also important that activity is stopped if unusual pain occurs. Cross training, stretching, and decreasing the intensity of the exercise might help prevent tendonitis.
Certain diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can also cause tendonitis. Tendonitis can usually be treated with rest, ice, and medicine to relieve pain and to decrease swelling. Other treatments include ultrasound, physical therapy, and steroid injections. Surgery is usually considered a last alternative if the tendonitis symptoms are extreme.
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