10919 Tendonitis

Overview

Tendonitis is a condition where a tendon becomes painful, swollen, or irritated. Tendons are thick, flexible cords that attach your muscles to your bones. They help you move by letting your muscles pull on your bones. When a tendon is overused or strained, it can become inflamed and cause pain. Tendonitis is sometimes called tendinopathy, which is a broader term that includes both inflammation and damage to the tendon.

Yes, tendonitis is very common. Many people will experience it at some point, especially if they play sports, do physical work, or perform repetitive tasks.

Tendonitis can affect anyone, but it becomes more common as you get older because tendons lose their flexibility and strength with age. It also tends to affect people who do repeated activities, such as athletes, office workers, manual laborers, and musicians.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pain or tenderness in the affected area, especially when moving it
• Swelling that may feel warm to the touch
• Stiffness and difficulty moving the joint
• A dull ache or a burning sensation
• Worsening pain during or after activity

Symptoms in children

• Tendonitis is less common in children, but it can happen with sports that involve repeated throwing, jumping, or running.
• Children may not describe pain clearly and may just say their limb hurts or stop using it.
• Pain is often felt near the growth plates, so it is important to have a doctor check any persistent pain in a child.

Symptoms in older adults

• Pain may come on more gradually and feel like stiffness rather than sharp pain.
• Tendons are weaker with age, so even light activity can cause irritation.
• Older adults may also have other conditions like arthritis, which can make the symptoms feel similar.

Causes

Main causes

• Repeating the same movement over and over, such as typing, throwing, or lifting
• Doing an activity too quickly or too intensely without proper conditioning
• A sudden injury or accident that strains the tendon
• Poor posture or improper technique during exercise or work
• Using the body awkwardly, such as lifting heavy objects with a bent wrist

Risk factors

• Getting older, which makes tendons less flexible and more prone to injury
• Playing sports that involve repetitive motions, such as tennis, golf, or running
• Doing physical labor or jobs that require a lot of lifting, reaching, or repetitive actions
• Having certain health conditions, like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, which can affect tendon health
• Taking certain antibiotics (this is rare, but your doctor can tell you more)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have sudden severe pain, or you heard a pop and cannot move the joint.
• You have symptoms that keep getting worse over a few days even with rest.
• You have signs of infection such as fever, chills, or spreading redness.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Pain lasts more than a week without improving.
• Pain is bad enough to stop you from doing everyday activities.
• You notice swelling that does not go down.
• You want to explore treatment options to help you recover faster.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will start by asking about your symptoms, work, hobbies, and any recent activities. They will then examine the area by pressing on the tendon and asking you to move it in certain ways. This helps them find exactly where the pain is coming from and see how the tendon and joint are working.

Tests that may be done

• X-rays may be done to rule out bone problems like fractures or arthritis.
• Ultrasound can give a detailed picture of the tendon and show swelling or tears.
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) may be used if the doctor suspects a more serious injury or if the pain does not improve with treatment.

What to expect at your appointment

Most of the time, you will not need any special tests. The doctor may ask you to describe when the pain started, what makes it worse, and what makes it better. The visit usually lasts about 15 to 30 minutes, and the doctor will likely give you advice on how to manage the pain at home.

Treatment

Treatment for tendonitis is usually simple and focuses on relieving pain and helping the tendon heal. In most cases, you can start with rest, ice, gentle movement, and avoiding the activities that cause pain. Physical therapy and supportive devices can also speed up recovery. In more stubborn cases, a doctor may recommend other treatments, but surgery is rarely needed.

Self-care at home

• Rest the affected area by stopping or cutting back on activities that cause pain.
• Apply ice wrapped in a cloth for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling and pain.
• Use a bandage or wrap for support, but make sure it is not too tight.
• Keep the affected area raised when possible to help reduce swelling.
• Gently stretch and move the area as soon as you can, but stop if it hurts.

Medical treatments

A doctor or pharmacist can suggest safe pain relief options, such as over-the-counter pain-relieving creams or tablets. Physical therapy — including stretching, strengthening, and massage — can help the tendon heal and prevent future problems. In some cases, a doctor may recommend a brace, splint, or shoe insert. Corticosteroid injections may be used for short-term pain relief, but they are given carefully because repeated injections can weaken the tendon.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for tendonitis. It may be considered if the tendon has torn, or if pain does not improve after several months of rest, therapy, and other treatments. If surgery is recommended, your doctor will explain what it involves and what you can expect during recovery.

Living with this condition

While you recover, take breaks from repetitive tasks and try to use the affected limb less. When you do return to activities, do them slowly and gently. Listen to your body — pain is a sign that you need to rest or change how you are moving. Good posture and using proper equipment can also help you avoid extra strain.

Lifestyle tips

• Pace yourself and avoid pushing through pain.
• Take frequent breaks during long periods of activity, like typing or gardening.
• Use correct form and posture, whether you are at a desk, playing sports, or lifting objects.
• Make sure your tools, chair, and work area are set up in a way that does not strain your tendons.

Diet and exercise

Eating a healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and protein can help your body repair tissues. Gentle exercises, like stretching and light movement, can keep the area flexible once the pain improves. A physical therapist can show you safe strengthening exercises to help protect the tendon.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with pain can be frustrating and may make you feel stressed, anxious, or down. It is normal to have these feelings. If you are feeling overwhelmed, talk to your doctor, a trusted friend, or a mental health professional. Taking care of your emotional health is an important part of healing.

Prevention

Many cases of tendonitis can be prevented. Warming up before exercise, stretching gently, and gradually increasing the intensity or duration of activities are all helpful. Using correct technique and taking rest breaks during repetitive tasks can also reduce your risk. If you feel pain starting, stop and rest before it becomes worse.

Complications

If left untreated

• The pain may become chronic, meaning it lasts for months or even longer.
• The tendon may become weaker and more likely to tear.
• You may develop reduced range of motion in the affected joint.
• Pain may lead you to avoid activity, which can cause muscle weakness or stiffness.

Long-term outlook

The outlook is very good. With proper care, rest, and rehabilitation, most people recover fully within a few weeks to a few months. Following your healthcare provider's advice and giving your body time to heal will give you the best chance of returning to your normal activities without lasting problems.

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