Tendonitis

What causes tendonitis?

Tendonitis results when you’ve put too much stress on your tendons. Athletes commonly experience tendonitis, but they’re not the only people at risk. Any sort of repetitive motion performed over a long period of time can result in tendonitis. 

Tendonitis can also result because of a sudden injury, but these cases are far less common. 

Am I at risk of developing tendonitis? 

You may be at risk of tendonitis if you’re an athlete, especially a swimmer, runner, or golfer, or you play racquet sports. 

People are more vulnerable to developing tendonitis as they get older. If you have a job that requires repetitive daily activity, like painting or construction, you’re also at greater risk. Those with diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis are more likely to develop tendonitis.

When should I suspect tendonitis?

The most common symptoms associated with tendonitis include:

• Pain, which increases with activity of the affected area
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Grating or crackling sensation
• Formation of a lump along the tendon

The team at Nevada Orthopedic & Spine Center wants to diagnose tendonitis as early as possible to prevent more severe symptoms or rupture of the tendon. If a tendon has ruptured, you can feel a gap in the line of the tendon, and movement at the site of the tissue will be difficult. 

The sooner you seek treatment for tendonitis, the easier it is to resolve. You’re less likely to experience complications too.

How do you treat tendonitis?

Rest is one of the most effective ways to resolve pain from tendonitis. Noninvasive treatments, like over-the-counter pain relievers, corticosteroid injections, and physical therapy, can help with pain symptoms. At-home strategies, like icing, compression, and elevation, can also relieve the inflammation associated with tendonitis.

When noninvasive therapies are ineffective, shockwave therapy or surgery may be recommended. During shockwave therapy, a shockwave penetrates the outer layer of skin to break up calcium deposits that lie beneath and contribute to inflammation of your tendon. 

Surgery is most likely needed when the tendon has torn away from the bone.

If you have pain that suggests tendonitis, seek care from the providers at Nevada Orthopedic & Spine Center today. Call one of the offices or use the online tool to schedule your appointment.