What is tendinitis?
Tendonitis or tendinopathy is the inflammation or swelling of the tendon, the structure that attaches muscle to bone.
Symptoms of tendinitis.
The symptoms of tendinitis are basically pain in the affected joint, especially at night. This pain worsens with physical activity or general movement of the joint.
Causes of tendinitis
Tendinitis is caused by an injury or overload in the tendon, or by the loss of elasticity of the tendon, which usually occurs with age.
On the other hand, some diseases can facilitate tendinitis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes.
How to prevent tendinitis
To avoid tendinitis it is important to follow these indications:
- Avoid sudden repetitive movements.
- Avoid overloading arms and legs.
- Keep muscles strong and flexible with exercise and good nutrition.
- Warm up at a leisurely pace before physical activity.
Treatment for tendonitis
Treatment for tendinitis aims to reduce inflammation of the tendon and relieve swelling. Through osteopathy or physiotherapy, the medical professional will try to localize the pain, stretch and strengthen the muscle and try to reduce the muscle overload.
On the other hand, the patient is recommended to rest the tendon, and even to avoid its movement by using a removable splint. Applying cold or heat to the affected muscle helps to relieve the pain.
Taking anti-inflammatory drugs is very helpful in relieving pain and inflammation, as well as injecting steroids into the tendon.
Ultimately, surgery may be required to remove the inflamed tissue from the tendon.