Fibrous cords that join muscle to bone are called tendons, which can irritate or become inflamed in case of tendonitis. Tendonitis can affect any of the tendons; however, it most frequently affects the joints in and around one’s shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and heels. It is advised to get tendonitis treatment before the condition worsens. If left untreated, it can raise one’s chance of tendon rupture, a more severe condition that may need surgery.

Causes of tendonitis

Tendonitis is an inflammatory disorder that affects the tendons that connect one’s muscles to their bones. Tendonitis, which is frequently caused by repetitive motions, can be uncomfortable. The most common cause of tendonitis is the overuse (repetitive stress) of tendons. Moreover, the tendon and base of the thumb are common locations, but it can occur in places where calcium deposits have formed less frequently. Repetitive motion, such as that from work or sports, can harm the tendon where it joins to the bone as people age, triggering an inflammatory reaction from the body.

Although tendonitis can strike anyone at any age, people over 40 are more likely to develop it. Tendons become less resilient and flexible as they get older. Tendonitis is a common condition and understanding its signs and symptoms will help prevent the condition.

Symptoms of tendonitis

Tendon discomfort that worsens with movement

Having trouble moving the joint

A grating or crackling sensation when moving the tendon

Sometimes the condition is coupled with heat or redness, and swelling in the affected area

Difficulty completing specific actions, such as opening jars, turning door knobs, or picking up dogs, young toddlers, or newborns

Experiencing stiffness when moving the wrist

Swelling at the base of one’s fingers or around their wrist

Pain in the wrist, particularly at the thumb or pinkie finger on the side of the wrist,

Stages of tendonitis

Tendon inflammation can lead to stiffness and swelling, and sometimes the condition may get severe. Moreover, people can develop tendonitis regardless of their athletic skills.

Stage 1

In the initial stage, one may easily get tired when indulging in any activity. In the case of a tennis match, one may experience lateral elbow pain after the match; however, there is no impact on how the player performs. Participation is not restricted at this time. To reduce stress on the strained tendon, one should concentrate on stretching and applying ice to the affected area.

Stage 2

A person experiences discomfort at the beginning and after completing any activity in this stage. However, once the body has been warmed up, there will be no pain, and the player’s performance remains unaffected. But it’s critical to determine what caused the tendonitis in the first place. To reduce stress on the strained tendon, one should concentrate on stretching and strengthening the imbalanced muscles.

Stage 3

Participating in an activity causes discomfort at the start, during, and after, yet a person’s play and technique of playing remain unaffected. But it is essential to limit one’s participation to 50 percent.

Stage 4

With constant discomfort, this period is the most painful. Pain occurs before, during, and after any activity. A person’s playing style changes as a result of the pain, and they do this in an effort to minimize it. At this point, total rest is required.

Non-surgical treatment and management options for tendonitis

Avoid repetitive motions that might have contributed to the disease or its cause.

Use ice on the wrist to minimize swelling.

Wear a splint to restrict motion and stop further damage.

Use prescribed painkillers to reduce inflammation.

With rest, ice, compression (a sleeve or wrap), elevation, stretching, and change of activity, tendonitis can be successfully managed in most cases.

Avoid activities or motions exacerbating the damaged tendon to lessen pain.

Manage tendon issues by avoiding running, throwing, and jumping repeatedly

Avoid incorrect posture or technique while working out, playing sports, or repetitive motions as it can contribute to repetitive strain injury (RSI).

Take assistance from tendonitis wrist wraps

If the condition remains the same, and the patient suspects it is caused due to an injury, they should consult a doctor for tendonitis treatment. A physician can evaluate the severity of the tendonitis and make recommendations for additional therapies.

Surgical tendonitis treatment

Surgery can realign tendons, remove bone spurs that might be pressing on tendons, and remove areas of calcium buildup in the most severe cases where non-surgical procedures have failed to produce positive results. In some instances, chronic tendon inflammation and overuse—particularly of the Achilles tendon or shoulder rotator cuff tendons—can cause the tendon to weaken and eventually rupture.

The condition may result in unusual new blood vessel growth as well as cause the tendon to degenerate. Treatment options are severely constrained once a tendon has sustained irreversible damage or has burst.