Tendonitis

Tendonitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon—the thick fibrous cord that attaches muscle to bone—causing pain, tenderness, and joint stiffness.

Symptoms

• Pain described as a dull ache, particularly when moving the affected limb or joint
• Tenderness and mild swelling around the joint
• Stiffness that limits range of motion

Causes

Repetitive strain over time from sports, exercise, or work activities. It can also stem from sudden, high-impact injuries or poor biomechanics during physical activity.

Risk Factors

• Age: Tendons become less flexible and more prone to injury over time.
• Repetitive Movement: Occupations or sports requiring frequent, identical motions (e.g., tennis, golf, running, pitching).
• Improper Technique: Poor posture or training form during physical activity.

Diagnosis

A Premier Orthopaedics sports medicine physician performs a thorough physical examination and movement assessment, supplemented by X-rays or MRI imaging to assess tendon damage and rule out tears.

Treatment

Most cases respond to conservative care, including tailored physical therapy, rest, targeted ice application, and anti-inflammatory medications. Advanced cases may benefit from regenerative therapies or minimally invasive procedure options.