Tendinitis is one of the most common sports injuries. A tendon is the thick tissue that attaches muscle to bone. Tendinitis is inflammation around the tendon that is most commonly caused by repetitive overuse or sudden injury. It can happen anywhere tendons are located, but most commonly occurs in the tendons of the knee, Achilles, shoulder and elbow.
The Symptoms of Tendinitis
The most common symptom of tendinitis is pain of the tendon and the surrounding area. There is tenderness to the touch and you may feel pain with range of motion. Your range of motion can also be limited. Using the associated muscles can also cause pain. There may be associated swelling around the area as well.
Treatment Options
Initial treatment of tendinitis includes rest and avoiding the activities which cause pain. Icing can help. Taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) can reduce inflammation and pain. If symptoms do not improve you should see an orthopedic surgeon. Your orthopedist will evaluate you to be sure you have tendinitis rather than tendinosis (degeneration within the tendon) or a tendon tear.
You may benefit from a corticosteroid (steroid) injection in some cases. Physical therapy may be prescribed to help decrease inflammation and pain and to restore range of motion. A brace or orthotic may be prescribed as well. Surgery is rarely needed but may necessary if your symptoms do not resolve with non-operative treatment.
Our skilled doctors at Advanced Orthopaedic Associates in Wayne, NJ, will help you recover from your tendonitis pain. We serve people dealing with sports injuries, fractures, and joint conditions. Serving patients in Bergen, Passaic, and Morris counties, we offer innovative recovery options and help modify improper techniques. To learn more about the services we provide, call (973) 839-5700 to schedule an appointment.
