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Tendonitis

Your tendons are flexible bands of tissue that attach muscle to bone. When a tendon becomes irritated or inflamed it is referred to as tendonitis. Common forms of tendonitis include tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, runner’s knee, swimmer’s shoulder, and achilles tendonitis. 

Tendonitis is most commonly caused by repetitive stress or minor impact to the affected area. It is most prevalent at your shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and heels. Anyone can experience tendonitis although it is much more common as you age. Pain is typically isolated to the affected area and is often described as an ache that can increase in severity over time. 

A physical examination, and in some case an x-ray and MRI, will be used to show the depth of the injury and allow your orthopedic surgeon to determine the best treatment options

Learn more about tendonitis below or find a location near you to schedule an evaluation.

Symptoms

  • Dull aching pain that increases when moving the affected joint tenderness and swelling at the affected area
  • Pain that increases during or after exercises or activity and improves with rest

Causes

  • Repetitive movements over time that put stress on the tendon
  • Using improper techniques when exercising, lifting, or pulling
  • Forceful or violent motions

Risk Factors

  • Participating in sports or exercise that involve repetitive or forceful motions such as tennis, golf, bowling, swimming, or running
  • Occupations that involve repetitive motions, frequent overhead reaching, or continued vibrations such as painting or construction work
  • General activities that involve repetitive motions or frequent overhead reaching such as gardening, shoveling, or raking
  • Lack of adequate stretching before or after exercise
  • Poor posture or form during activities
  • Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or blood or kidney disease

Diagnosis

  • Physical examination of the affected area
  • X-ray to show bone health and potential hardening of tendons
  • MRI to show severity of tendon damage and determine treatment options

Treatment Options

  • RICE therapy: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
  • Nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief
  • Physical therapy