About Tendinitis Pain Relief

Tendinitis is an inflammation of tendons that connect the ends of muscles to bones. There are different types of tendinitis, but it is most common in the elbows, wrists, hips, shoulders, ankles and knees. Relieving the pain and swelling of tendinitis can include a combination or rest, topical and medical treatment, nutrition and supplements. The time frame for relieving and overcoming tendinitis pain can vary among sufferers.

• Shoulder tendinitis

Causes and Symptoms

• Tendinitis is most often caused by a small tear in a tendon, as the result of an injury or overuse. Symptoms include pain, stiffness or difficulty with normal movements. Severe tears may require surgery, and an MRI can be used to make a proper diagnosis of the severity of the condition.

Effects of Rest, Ice and Heat

• Initially, it is best to rest a few days if you have tendinitis. This can prevent further injury to the tendon. It also gives the ice time to reduce inflammation and pain. Ice causes vasocontriction, which limits blood flow to the area. This helps to control swelling and alleviate tendinitis pain. Ice is usually used the first 48 hours and is most effective when it is compressed against the affected area with an ice pack. Elevating the injury above the heart can also alleviate pain and swelling. Once swelling and pain have subsided, heat can be used to promote blood flow to the area.

Medical Treatments and Supplements

• Along with ice, anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen and naproxen can help reduce swelling and provide temporary pain relief. These types of medicines are COX-2 inhibitors, which minimize the swelling caused by COX-2 enzymes and prostaglandins (chemicals), which are part of the body's natural reaction to injuries. Topical ointments such as Bengay can also help reduce swelling and pain. In the case of severe tendinitis pain, a doctor may prescribe oral steroids or a cortisone shot for longer-term pain relief. A growing number of drugstores are stocking glucosamine and chondroitin supplements for tendinitis and joint pain. These supplements are believed to reduce inflammation and control tendinitis pain. Magnesium, a mineral, is a natural muscle relaxant and might alleviate pain as well.

Exercise

• Muscles tend to tighten as we age. Tight, inactive muscles can be prone to tendinitis, especially if you lift or move something heavy without properly warming up first. Sometimes, a series of gentle stretching movements can relieve tendinitis pain. It stimulates blood flow to the area, which carries the nutrients and medications. Stretching is usually limited to movements that do not cause pain. Light weightlifting or resistance exercise can help relieve tendinitis as well. Resistance training is the most effective way to increase blood flow to the area once swelling has subsided.

Time Frame

• Some people get immediate relief from tendinitis pain using ice, medication and other methods. Others notice a reduction in pain over time as well as a decrease in the number of flare-ups. Consistency in pain relief therapy tends to be most effective in treating and overcoming tendinitis problems.