TENDONITIS

Overview & Facts

Tendonitis is an inflammatory condition characterized by pain at the tendon insertions into bone. Constant mechanical stress on tendons may cause inflammation and degeneration of the tendons. Common sites of tendonitis include the rotator cuff of the shoulder, wrists, knees and legs.

Types & Symptoms

Symptoms of a tendonitis can include:

  • Pain on movement at the affected area
  • Stiffness in the affected area
  • Weakness or immobility in the affected area
  • Grating or crackling sensation of the tendon upon movement
  • Swelling at the affected site, sometimes with heat or redness

Diagnosis & Medications

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of tendonitis is based on the identification of symptoms and examination of affected area. Physician may also occasionally request for radiologic studies (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI) to confirm diagnosis.

 

Recommended Management

Tendonitis may resolve within weeks but in persistent cases, symptoms may last for several months. Depending on the severity of the injury, consult physician for the proper management plan.

Methods of treatment may include the following:

  • Self-care
  • Rest
  • Ice packs (directed to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day)
  • Analgesics (ie. Paracetamol, iburpofen)
  • Physiotherapy
  • Corticosteroid injections (for relief of pain and/or swelling)
  • Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT)
  • Surgery (last resort)

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