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What Makes Tendons Tight?

Tendons, which connect to muscles, can become tight due to a combination of factors. According to the National Cancer Institute, tendons are tough, fibrous, cord-like tissues that connect muscle to bone. Tendons help the bone move.

  1. Tendons and Muscles

    • Tendons are connected to muscle. Therefore, tight tendons can occur in various parts of the body. According to "Men's Health," tight muscles do not permit as much blood into muscled areas, such as the back or neck, and therefore are blocked from getting the necessary nutrients.

    Cause of Tight Muscles

    • One of the major causes of muscle tightness, which in turn can contribute to tight tendons, is muscle overuse, reports "Men's Health." Overuse causes small tears and to compensate, the muscles tighten. Poor stretching habits or lack of stretching can also cause tightness, states "Men's Health."

    Tendinitis

    • If tendons are tight, tendinitis can occur. According to the Mayo Clinic, tendinitis is an inflammation or irritation of a tendon. As a result, pain and tenderness occurs just outside the afflicted joint. Although it can be caused by injury, it can also occur due to habitually repeated movement over a certain period of time, the Mayo Clinic states.

    Tendinitis Complications

    • The Mayo Clinic also states that without proper treatment, tendinitis can increase the risk of tendon rupture. The Mayo Clinic further says that tendinitis can be treated by an injection of corticosteroid medication, therapy or, if the situation calls for it, surgery.

    Prevention/Solution

    • In order to prevent muscle and tendon tightness, "Men's Health" recommends that people, especially athletes, regularly utilize proper stretching techniques. Additionally, it's important to have good posture. If need be, it may help to see a sports injury specialist or sports masseur, "Men's Health" reports.

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