Tendinitis

Tendons are sinews and leaders. They are bundles comprised of cords of white fibrous tissue. They attach themselves to the end of a bone, muscle or other structure that reacts to the muscles upon contraction, including joints. Bound together, tendons are strong and dense. They come as rounded or flattened. Some are even short and compact. Surrounding them is a sheath lined with membranes. Tendinitis is the inflammation of the tendons, while tenosynovitis is the swelling of the sheaths that surround the tendons.

Causes and Description

Tendinitis usually originates in excessive or unusual physical activity. As a result certain types are called “Tennis elbow” or “Golfer’s elbow.” It is the result of straining the tendons during these actions. Infection can also cause tendonitis. A further causal factor is a connective-tissue disorder. In this case, tendonitis is a secondary symptom of this other medical problem.

Specific terms associated with tendonitis include Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI). The term RSI describes the mechanism or cause of the injury. The term includes the various types of tendonitis and tendonitis-related health problems. Among them is carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). RSI can appear in the hands and arms. People who are prone to RSI include factory production line workers, computer operators and even musicians such as violinists and guitarists. Tenosynovitis – in which the tendon sheath becomes inflamed may accompany the condition of tendonitis. I

Susceptible Tendons

Certain tendons are more likely to be affected by tendonitis than others are. These include the patellar tendons - those attached to the kneecap. This is often the result of repeated actions common in such things as basketball. Another weak point is the Achilles tendon. This is situated at the back of the heel. Downhill running will cause tendonitis to appear in this tendon.

Other tendons and their accompanying joints are affected by tendonitis. These include the ankle, the elbow, the shoulder and the wrist.

Symptoms

Tendonitis creates pain around the location of the affected tendon. If the nearby muscles and joints are used, the pain will intensify, worsening the condition. Exercising the affected part may increase the pain. Sometimes, even at rest, the affected part will provide pain and aching. There are also possible sweating in the affected area as well as stiffness. This may be accompanied by limited range of motion or movement.

Treatment

Treatment can consist of any of the following alone or acting together.

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – to reduce the swelling and inflammation
• Immobilization of the affected part
• Splinting – to provide adequate support
• Rest – to allow the tendons to heal
• Corticosteroid injections – to reduce the inflammation
• Specific exercises – these may be recommended to help build up the muscle and joint strength in the area

Conclusion

Tendons are an important part of the body. If they suffer from overuse and/or abuse, the result is tendonitis. Swelling of the tendons and associated results in painful movements, rest, the use of proper medication and supportive devices will help recovery