Remedies for Tendonitis

Tendons are tough, flexible bands of connective tissues that connect muscle to bone. Tendons can become inflamed very easily through common, daily use and most often through overuse. Tendonitis can also be caused by repeated injury. The inflammation of the tendon can be very painful and an indication of other problems such as arthritis, diabetes and thyroid disease. With proper treatment, tendonitis can be completely healed.

Refrain from activity

• The most common treatment of tendonitis is to refrain from doing the activity that caused the tendon to become inflamed. Tennis elbow is a common form of tendonitis. If you suffer from this problem, refrain from playing tennis for several weeks until the tendons are healthy. It will stop the problem, but often the tendons will swell again.

Heat and Ice

• Alternating heat and ice can help with tendonitis. Ice and heat should be alternated in 15-minute intervals. Apply the ice for 15 minutes, followed by heat for another 15 minutes. This will ease the tenderness and stop the swelling in the tendon. Anti-inflammatory drugs such as Motrin or Advil also help in combination with ice and heat. This will relieve the pain and also help with the swelling. Try two tablets every four to six hours for best results.

Stretching

• Stretching the tendons can help to prevent tears. Allowing the tendon to stretch helps it to remain supple, which cuts down on irritation and inflammation. Often someone who is suffering from tendonitis will have to attend some form of physical therapy in order to gain full use over the tendon and joint. When stretching, it is important to not feel any pain. Pain will indicate that you are further overusing the tendon, which can cause additional inflammation.