Tendonitis is a condition in which the tissue connecting the muscle and bone becomes inflamed, a painful issue that impacts many. A tendon, a tough and flexible band of fibrous tissue, can become inflamed when movement of the tendon becomes impaired.
What Causes Tendonitis?
There are numerous reasons for the development of tendonitis, with the most common causes being overuse and aging. Diagnosis is completed through a physical examination and in some cases, X-rays and MRI’s are used to pinpoint the exact cause.. Symptoms include tenderness directly on the tendon, swelling, and pain with movement.
How to Treat Tendonitis?
Tendonitis treatment may include several steps to support healing.
Treatment options may include:
Icing (Cold Therapy)
Applying ice may help reduce inflammation and swelling. Many people use ice after activity or during flare-ups to calm irritated tissue.
Anti-Inflammatory Medications or Topical Gels
Anti-inflammatory medications and gels may help decrease swelling and relieve pain. These can be used as part of a broader treatment approach, based on your provider’s recommendations.
Cortisone Injections
If symptoms continue despite rest and other conservative options, a cortisone injection may be considered. Cortisone is typically injected near the area of inflammation to help manage persistent discomfort, especially when other methods are not providing enough relief.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy may be recommended when symptoms don’t improve with medications or injections alone. Targeted exercises can help improve strength, flexibility, and movement patterns that may contribute to tendon irritation.
Rest and Activity Modification
Rest is often an important part of tendonitis recovery. Taking a break from repetitive or high-impact activity may give the inflamed tendon time to calm down and recover, which may include temporarily adjusting workouts or daily routines. Tendonitis can affect elbows, wrists, shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles, often causing pain that may limit movement. If your symptoms aren’t improving, an orthopedic specialist can evaluate the area and recommend next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tendonitis
How long does tendonitis last?
Tendonitis can last a few days or a few weeks. It depends on the tendon and how irritated it is. Some people feel better with rest and care. Other cases can take longer.
What does tendonitis feel like?
Tendonitis often feels like pain near a joint. The area may feel sore or tender. It can hurt more when you move or use that body part. Some people also notice swelling or stiffness.
Does massage help tendonitis?
Massage may help some people feel better. It can loosen tight muscles around the tendon. But deep massage may make pain worse in some cases. A provider can tell you if massage is a good idea.
Is heat or ice better for tendonitis?
Ice may help lower swelling and calm irritation. Heat may help with stiffness and tight muscles. Some people use ice after activity. Others use heat before stretching. It depends on your symptoms.
Can tendonitis cause numbness?
Tendonitis usually causes pain, not numbness. But numbness can happen if a nearby nerve gets irritated. Tingling or weakness may be a sign of another problem. It is a good idea to get checked if this happens.
Does tendonitis show up on an x-ray?
Tendonitis usually does not show up on an X-ray. X-rays show bones, not tendons. An X-ray may still be done to rule out other problems. Other scans like an MRI or ultrasound may show tendon issues better.
To learn more about the difference between MRI and X-Ray, click here.
Taking the Next Steps in Your Care
Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute (AOSMI) provides orthopedic care for patients dealing with pain, injuries, and conditions that affect movement. Our providers evaluate and treat a wide range of concerns involving the joints, muscles, bones, and spine. Care is based on each patient’s symptoms, needs, and goals.
AOSMI offers specialized services including orthopedic care, hand and upper extremity care, spine care, sports medicine, pain management and podiatry. We also provide supportive rehabilitation services such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, hand therapy and massage therapy, which may be recommended as part of a personalized treatment plan.
Visit us at one of our locations across New Jersey, including Freehold, Monroe Township, Toms River, Belmar, and Manalapan. Request an appointment or call 732-720-2555 to speak with our Physicians Department.