Tendinitis: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Tendinitis is inflammation of a tendon, the cord of tissue that connects muscle to bone. While historically called "tendinitis" (inflammation), most chronic cases involve tendinopathy (degeneration without inflammation). Common sites include the shoulder (rotator cuff), elbow, wrist, knee, and Achilles tendon. The condition causes pain and may reduce function, but is generally treatable with conservative care.

Tendinitis can be acute or chronic, with onset ranging from sudden injury to gradual overuse.

Common causes include:

• Repetitive motions
• Sudden increase in activity
• Poor technique or posture
• Inadequate warm-up
• Excessive force or overload
• Age (decreased healing)
• Genetic factors

Sports, manual labor, and computer work are high-risk activities.

Symptoms include:

• Pain and tenderness over the tendon
• Swelling and warmth
• Reduced strength and range of motion
• Stiffness, especially in morning
• Pain with specific movements
• Crepitus (crackling sensation)

Diagnosis involves:

• Physical examination
• Palpation of tender tendon
• Imaging (ultrasound or MRI) for confirmation
• Special tests for specific tendons

Conservative treatment (first-line):

• Rest and activity modification
• Ice application (15 minutes, 2-3 times daily)
• NSAIDs for pain relief
• Physical therapy and stretching
• Eccentric strengthening exercises
• Bracing or taping
• Corticosteroid injections (short-term)
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy

Surgical intervention only for severe, refractory cases.

Prevention strategies include:

• Proper warm-up and cool-down
• Correct technique and body mechanics
• Progressive activity increase
• Adequate rest between activities
• Strength and flexibility training
• Ergonomic adjustments
• Appropriate footwear

See a doctor if pain persists beyond 2 weeks, worsens despite home treatment, or is accompanied by significant swelling or loss of function. Early intervention prevents progression to chronic tendinopathy.