What is tendonitis?

What is tendonitis?

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Tendonitis, also known as tendinitis, is a condition characterized by inflammation or irritation of a tendon, which is the thick fibrous tissue that connects muscles to bones. Tendons are responsible for transmitting the force generated by the muscles to the bones, allowing movement of the joints.

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Tendonitis most commonly occurs from overuse as the result of repetitive motion. It can affect various parts of the body, but some common sites of tendonitis include the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and heels.

Common symptoms of tendonitis

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The symptoms of tendonitis can vary depending on the location and severity of the condition. 

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Common symptoms include:

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1. Pain: Tendonitis typically presents as localized dull aching pain near the affected tendon. it is often aggravated by movement or activity and is usually relieved upon rest.
2. Tenderness and Swelling: The presence of swelling and tenderness around the affected tendon are common in tendonitis.
3. Stiffness: Tendonitis can cause muscle stiffness and limited range of motion in the affected joint.
4. Weakness: Tendonitis may lead to weakness in the associated muscle group, making it difficult to perform certain movements or activities.

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What causes tendonitis?

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The main causes of tendonitis include:

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1. Overuse or repetitive motion: Repeated movements or activities that stress a particular tendon can lead to microtrauma and inflammation, especially if there is inadequate time for the tendon to rest and recover.
2. Overload: The sudden increase of the level of force exerted on certain activity such as weight lifting can also cause tendonitis.
3. Improper Posture and Biomechanics: These lead to an imbalance in the length and strength of the muscles and decrease the effectiveness of the dynamic and stabilizing structures. Engaging in activities with improper posture and biomechanics can place excessive stress on the tendons, increasing the risk of tendonitis.

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How can physical therapy help? 

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Physical therapy can play a crucial role in the treatment of tendonitis. The goals of physical therapy for tendonitis may vary, but the common goals include:

1. Pain and inflammation management: Physical therapists may use modalities such as ice therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to help reduce pain and inflammation in the affected area.
2. Rest and activity modification: Resting the affected tendon and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms is crucial for healing. Physical therapists can provide guidance on modifying activities or recommending alternative exercises that minimize strain on the affected tendon. In some cases, the use of an assistive device and arm sling may be recommended depending on the affected area.
3. Stretching and flexibility exercises: Specific stretching exercises can help improve flexibility and lengthen the affected tendon, reducing tension and promoting healing.
4. Strengthening exercises: Strengthening the muscles around the affected tendon can provide support and stability, reducing stress on the tendon. Physical therapists will prescribe strengthening exercises on targeted muscles to improve strength, performance and endurance also to address any muscle imbalances.
5. Manual therapy techniques: Hands-on techniques, such as soft tissue mobilization, cross fiber massage, and myofascial release, can help reduce muscle tension, improve tissue extensibility, and enhance blood circulation around the tendon.
6. Posture and Biomechanical correction: Physical therapists can assess posture and movement patterns to identify any faulty biomechanics and posture that contribute to tendonitis. They can provide guidance on proper posture, and movement techniques to reduce strain on the tendon.
7. Gradual return to activity: Physical therapists can guide individuals through a progressive exercise program that gradually reintroduces activities and exercises to the affected tendon, ensuring proper healing and minimizing the risk of recurrence.
8. Patient Education and Home Exercise Program: Physical therapists educate the patient about tendonitis, its causes, symptoms, prognosis and length of rehabilitation treatment. They also teach safe and effective execution of home exercise programs and encourage patient adherence and avoidance of irritating the healing tissues which are necessary for optimal recovery. 

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It's important to seek proper medical evaluation and guidance from a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or physical therapist, for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan for tendonitis. The specific treatment approach may vary depending on the location and severity of the condition.

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Finally – the all-in-one, professional, convenient approach to physical therapy that you deserve with PeteHealth.

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