What Is Tendinitis?

Tendons are tough fibrous bands of tissue that connect muscle to bone. In order for your body to move, the muscles must contract or shorten and pull on the bones. The tendons help to create this force between the muscles and the bones. Tendons are located throughout the body. Since they are involved in all the movements you do, they are susceptible to overuse and injury. One type of injury is tendinitis. Here is some basic information you need to know about this condition.

Identification

• Tendinitis starts as an inflammation in the lining around the tendon. If it is not treated right away it can lead to inflammation within the tendon. Tendinitis can come on quickly or it can develop slowly over a period of repetitive injury or overuse. Overuse of the tendon can cause it to become weak and inflamed. In other cases it is due to aging since your tendons loses elasticity over time. If tendinitis is not treated properly some of the fibers of the tendon can tear or the tendon can completely rupture.

Causes

• Tendinitis can be the result of using incorrect body mechanics or having poor posture at work or home. A lack of a good stretching program can lead to tendons becoming tight and less flexible which leaves them more susceptible to injury. Abnormalities in bone structure, joint diseases such as arthritis and soft tissue injuries also increase your risk of developing tendinitis. In rare cases thyroid disorders or reactions to medications can also lead to this condition.

Symptoms

• The symptoms of tendinitis include pain and tenderness at the site of the injured tendon. This spot is usually near a joint. Pain at night or pain that is worse with movement or activity are other signs. Your discomfort may occur just during specific activities and then diminish with rest. The pain may build up gradually or it can be sudden and severe. More severe pain may be a sign that calcium deposits are present. You may also experience a loss of motion in the joint near the affected tendon.

Diagnosis

• Your doctor will need to do a through physical exam. You will need to provide her with information on your symptoms including when the symptoms started, what makes them worse and what makes them better. Your physician may need to palpate the area to check for tenderness at specific sites, as well as look for signs of swelling or changes in temperature in the skin. You may need X-rays and/or an MRI to check for damage.

Treatment

• If your tendinitis is mild you may find relief through rest, activity modifications such as avoiding repetitive motions, physical therapy and medication and/or injections. Your doctor may also try splinting or bracing the area, suggest applications of ice and heat or prescribe exercises to strengthen the area. You will need to make sure you warm up properly before vigorous activity and train at an appropriate intensity. If your tendinitis is severe surgery may be necessary.