by Robert Leach, MD
En Espaol (Spanish Version) Tendonitis is inflammation of a tendon. A tendon is a strong fibrous piece of tissue that connects muscle to bone. There is a tendon at the end of each muscle connecting it to a bone. Tendons have a very thin, smooth sheath covering them called the peritendon. When the peritendon is inflamed, it is called peritendonitis.
Most cases of tendonitis involves mild inflammation of the tendon. When the inflammation is severe, there may be deterioration of the fibers within the tendon. This causes pain and makes it difficult to play sports or be active. Severe, long-term tendinitis may weaken or even rupture the tendon.
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Tendonitis is caused by overuse of a muscle-tendon unit. There is repeated strain on the tendon with overuse. Eventually, the tendon cannot withstand the strain and it begins to get very tiny tears.
Overuse can be the result of doing any activity too much, such as:
- Playing a sport
- Physical labor
- Housework
Tendonitis can develop in almost any tendon of the body. However, the following tendons are more commonly involved than the others:
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
Muscle imbalanceDecreased flexibilityOverweightAdvancing ageSex: femaleAlignment abnormalities of the leg Symptoms Symptoms include: Pain, particularly with activityLocal swellingDecreased motion of adjacent joints DiagnosisThe doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. In particular, the doctor will as about your physical activity and the location of the pain. Tests may include: X-rays to look for calcium deposits in the tendon, a sure sign of tendonitis, though not present in most cases MRI scan to confirm the diagnosis and show the amount of damage to the tendon (more likely when symptoms continue despite treatment) Treatment Treatment depends on: Severity of symptomsThe tendon involvedLength of time symptoms have lasted Treatment may include: Rest for the affected tendonAnti-inflammatory medicationsIce after activityWarming the affected area before activityCast or splint for immobilization of the affected areaCortisone injection into the sheath of the tendonCounterforce brace over the painful tendonShoe orthotics for foot alignment problemsGentle stretching of the tendonStrengthening of the involved muscleSurgery Prevention To prevent tendonitis:
Gradually work yourself into shape for a new activity.When increasing the length of time and intensity of activities, do so gradually.If you have a tendon that has been a problem, gradually stretch out that tendon.Strengthen the muscle attached to the tendon.If you have pain, do not ignore it. Early treatment can prevent the problem from becoming serious.Learn to back off from activities if you are tired or not used to the activity. RESOURCES: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeonshttp://www.aaos.org American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicinehttp://www.sportsmed.org CANADIAN RESOURCES: Canadian Orthopaedic Associationhttp://www.coa-aco.org/ Canadian Orthopaedic Foundationhttp://www.canorth.org/ References: American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine website. Available at: http://www.sportsmed.org . Human Tendons . Human Kinetics; 1997. Last reviewed October 2007 by Robert E. Leach, MDPlease be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
