Summary about Disease
Tendinitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon, a thick, fibrous cord that connects muscle to bone. This inflammation causes pain and tenderness just outside a joint. While it can occur in any tendon, it's most common around the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and heels.
Symptoms
Pain described as a dull ache, especially when moving the affected limb or joint.
Tenderness to the touch.
Mild swelling.
Pain that worsens with activity.
Stiffness.
A grating sensation or crackling sound when moving the tendon (crepitus).
Causes
Repetitive motions: Repeating a particular movement over and over, especially in sports or work, is the most common cause.
Sudden increase in activity: Starting an exercise program too quickly or increasing the intensity too rapidly.
Poor technique: Incorrect form during sports or other activities.
Age: Tendons become less flexible and more susceptible to injury with age.
Underlying medical conditions: Certain conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or infections can increase the risk.
Overuse: Straining a tendon by using it too much or for too long without proper rest.
Medicine Used
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) can help reduce pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help with pain but doesn't reduce inflammation.
Corticosteroids: In some cases, a doctor may inject a corticosteroid medication into the tendon sheath to reduce inflammation. However, repeated injections can weaken the tendon and should be used cautiously.
Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen the muscles around the tendon and improve flexibility.
Other options: Topical pain relievers such as creams or gels, containing NSAIDs or other pain-relieving ingredients.
Is Communicable
No, tendinitis is not communicable. It is not caused by a virus or bacteria and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Warm up before exercising: Prepare your muscles for activity with gentle stretching and warm-up exercises.
Use proper technique: Make sure you're using the correct form when playing sports or performing other activities.
Stretch regularly: Improve flexibility by stretching regularly, especially after exercise.
Strengthen your muscles: Strong muscles help support and protect your tendons.
Avoid overuse: Don't push yourself too hard, especially when starting a new activity.
Take breaks: If you're doing repetitive tasks, take frequent breaks to rest your tendons.
Use proper equipment: Make sure your equipment fits properly and is in good condition.
Listen to your body: Stop if you feel pain and rest.
Gradual increase in activity: increase the intensity of activity gradually.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of tendinitis varies depending on the severity of the condition, the specific tendon involved, and how well it's managed. With proper rest, treatment, and adherence to precautions, mild cases may resolve within a few weeks. More severe cases or those that are not treated promptly can last for several months. Chronic tendinitis can persist for even longer periods, with symptoms flaring up intermittently.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical Examination: A doctor will examine the affected area, checking for tenderness, swelling, and range of motion.
Medical History: The doctor will ask about your symptoms, activities, and any underlying medical conditions.
Imaging Tests:
X-rays: While X-rays don't show tendons, they can rule out other conditions like arthritis or fractures.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI scans can provide detailed images of tendons and surrounding tissues, helping to identify tears or inflammation.
Ultrasound: Ultrasound can also visualize tendons and detect inflammation or tears.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of tendinitis symptoms varies.
Early Stage: Mild ache or pain that occurs during or after activity. May be intermittent.
Intermediate Stage: Pain becomes more frequent and intense, even with minor activity. Stiffness may develop.
Late Stage: Pain is present even at rest and can interfere with daily activities. Chronic inflammation can lead to tendon thickening and weakness.
Important Considerations
Rest is crucial: Avoiding activities that aggravate the condition is essential for healing.
Complete rehabilitation: Follow a physical therapy program to restore strength and flexibility.
Address underlying causes: Correct any biomechanical issues or ergonomic problems that may be contributing to the condition.
Prevent recurrence: Continue to take precautions to avoid overuse and reinjury.
Seek professional help: If symptoms are severe or don't improve with self-care measures, consult a doctor or physical therapist. Ignoring tendinitis can lead to chronic pain and disability.