Tendinitis โ Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
Doctors look for tendinitis and other tendon issues by checking for pain, swelling, or tenderness. They often perform a physical exam.
If they need more information, doctors use X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI to rule out other problems like arthritis or tendon rupture. These tools also help them check for related conditions like bursitis, joint pain, or infection.
In some cases, blood tests may be ordered to rule out underlying conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or infection. A thorough patient history, including recent activities and repetitive motion tasks, can also help pinpoint the cause of the symptoms.
Treatment
Medicines for Pain and Inflammation
Doctors often suggest over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium. These medicines can reduce pain and swelling.
People should use these medicines carefully because long-term use may cause stomach issues or problems with the liver or kidneys.
Topical creams, which are rubbed into the skin over the sore area, can provide pain relief and lower the risk of side effects from pills.
Doctors may give steroid shots, like corticosteroid injections, near the tendon to lower pain if other treatments do not work. However, repeated shots can weaken the tendon, so doctors do not usually suggest them for ongoing tendinitis.
Newer treatments can include platelet-rich plasma injections. In this process, a doctor uses part of a personโs own blood, spins it to concentrate the healing cells, and injects it into the irritated tendon.
This method is still being studied but shows some promise for stubborn tendon issues.
Movement and Exercise for Recovery
Physical therapy plays a main role in tendinitis care. Rehab specialists teach eccentric strengthening, where the muscle works as it lengthens.
These exercises help the tendon and nearby muscles grow stronger and decrease pain. Therapists also advise on stretches, activity changes, and safe movement tips.
These steps can improve motion and lower the chances of future injury. Sometimes, using a splint or brace for a short time helps by keeping the area still.
Procedures and Surgeries If Needed
If rest, medicine, and physical therapy do not help, doctors may try other methods. One option is dry needling, where a tiny needle makes small holes in the sore tendon, often with ultrasound guidance, to boost healing.
In more serious cases, doctors may recommend surgery, especially if the tendon is torn or not improving with other treatments. The doctor will review all possible options to find the best approach.
Comparison of Tendinitis Treatment Methods
| Treatment Option | Main Goal | Common Side Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Pain medicines | Ease pain and swelling | Stomach upset, liver/kidney problems |
| Steroid injections | Short-term pain relief | Weak tendon after many shots |
| Physical therapy | Strengthen muscles/tendons | Rare, sometimes soreness |
| Platelet-rich plasma | Promote healing | Mild pain, swelling |
| Dry needling | Stimulate healing | Bruising, mild discomfort |
| Surgery | Repair severe damage | Usual risks of surgery |
Everyday Ways to Manage at Home
Caring for tendinitis at home focuses on easing pain and helping the tendon heal. Rest is important, but you do not need to stop all activities.
Avoid exercises or tasks that cause pain or swelling in the affected area. Light activities like swimming or gentle water movement are safer options because they put less strain on the injured tendon.
Applying ice helps lessen discomfort and swelling. Use an ice pack, an ice massage, or a cold bath with ice and water for up to 20 minutes, several times each day.
For an ice massage, freeze water in a paper cup. Peel back the top of the cup so the ice is exposed and rub it gently on the sore spot.
Compression helps keep swelling down. Wrap the area with an elastic bandage, but make sure itโs not too tight. Check for numbness or tingling, which means the wrap should be loosened.
Elevation is useful, especially if tendinitis affects a leg or arm. Raise the area above the level of the heart when possible to help reduce swelling.
| At-Home Step | What to Do | Why It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Rest | Stop activities that hurt | Reduces further injury |
| Ice | Apply cold packs for 20 minutes | Lowers pain and swelling |
| Compression | Use elastic bands | Controls swelling |
| Elevation | Keep affected area raised | Decreases swelling |
Once pain improves, slowly begin moving the joint through its normal movements to keep it flexible. Athletes and active people should always warm up and stretch to prevent tendinitis from returning.
Getting Ready for Your Medical Visit
Steps You Can Take Beforehand
To get the most from your appointment, prepare in advance. Here are some useful tips:
- Write Down Your Symptoms: Note how long you have had the pain and whether it is constant or comes and goes.
- Note Your Health History: List other health issues you have had, along with family medical history. For example, include if your parents or siblings have had joint problems.
- Record Your Medications: Make a table with all medicines, supplements, and vitamins you take, including doses.
| Medication Name | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Example: Ibuprofen | 200 mg | Twice daily |
| Example: Multivitamin | One tablet | Daily |
-
Prepare a list of questions: Think about what you want to ask your care provider. Here are some examples:
- What could be the cause of my pain?
- Are tests needed to confirm the condition?
- Is there a specific treatment you recommend?
- What activities should I avoid?
- Is it safe to keep working as a carpenter or painter if I have tendinitis?
- How can I manage this if I have other health issues?
- Bring Any Relevant Medical Records or information about previous injuries to your visit.
What Your Health Care Provider May Ask
During your appointment, the provider will likely ask about your pain and medical background.
Be ready to answer questions such as:
- Where exactly do you feel pain?
- Did your pain start suddenly, or did it develop slowly?
- Do your symptoms get worse during specific activities like painting, carpentry, or climbing stairs?
- What is your job or daily routine?
- Have you tried any home care or treatments, and did they help?
- Did you have a recent accident or injury?
- What activities improve or worsen your pain?
Be prepared to talk about your daily work, especially if you are a carpenter, painter, or have other jobs that use your arms or legs often.
Clear answers help your provider understand your situation and recommend the best care for you.
