Tendonitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon - the thick connective tissue between bones and muscle. This inflammation can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term), and commonly affects the shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, and Achilles tendon.
Common symptoms of tendonitis include:
- Pain (usually an ache) in the inflamed area
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Loss of mobility
Tendonitis is commonly caused by repeated impact movements or a sudden injury.
- Tennis elbow: tendonitis in the elbow and wrist that comes from repeated impact with improper form.
- Golfer’s elbow: tendonitis that occurs in the inner part of the elbow, resulting from poor swing form.
- Rotator cuff tendonitis: Rotator cuff inflammation commonly occurs in baseball players and swimmers as a result of repetitive throwing or swimming motions.
In addition to repetitive motion, you may be at greater risk of developing tendonitis as you get older, or if your occupation involves:
- Overhead pressing/ reaching
- Scrubbing
- Shoveling
- Frequent impact/ vibration in the elbow and shoulder
Many cases of tendonitis will begin to heal with self-care methods and rest. However, if you continue to perform the aggravating activity, or do not treat the inflammation, the tendon may rupture - a condition that may require surgery.
If you are experiencing a persistent ache around a certain joint, talk to your health care provider. While most instances of tendonitis do not require emergency medical attention, it is better to begin treatment early - to avoid further aggravating the injury.