Tendonitis: Causes, Conditions & Treatments

Tendonitis, characterized by inflammation of tendons—tough, fibrous tissues connecting muscles to bones—can afflict any tendon in the body, leading to discomfort, swelling, and pain. It often results from overexertion or repetitive stress on a muscle or joint, particularly during activities to which one is unaccustomed. Various types of tendonitis exist, including:

Achilles Tendonitis: The Achilles tendon, linking leg muscles to the foot, is the body’s largest tendon. Achilles tendonitis often arises from inadequate flexibility and excessive use.
De Quervain’s Tendinosis: Typically found in the wrist, de Quervain’s tendinosis arises from irritation or swelling of tendons along the thumb side of the wrist.
Golfer’s or Baseball Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis): This form of tendonitis results in pain extending from the elbow to the wrist on the palm side of the forearm.
Rotator Cuff or Biceps Tendonitis: Tendons in the shoulder, especially the rotator cuff, become inflamed, often due to compression by nearby bone, ligaments, or cartilage.
Trigger Finger: Tendons serve as pulleys for finger movement, and when their lining swells or develops knots, it results in trigger finger or trigger thumb. Symptoms include pain, popping or catching sensations, and the potential for the finger to become stuck in a bent position. If you suspect you have trigger finger or are experiencing symptoms, it's essential to consult with a trigger finger doctor or surgeon for a proper diagnosis.

Tendonitis Treatment

Tendon repair generally occurs rapidly for minor or infrequent damage. However, if the area sustains frequent damage, pain and inflammation can become chronic. Treatment options for tendonitis encompass:

Activity modification
RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
Medications, such as ibuprofen
Chiropractic care
Steroid injections

In severe cases of tendonitis, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair a damaged or ruptured tendon.

Dr. Frederick Barnes, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with special interest in treating tendonitis, has specialized training and extensive experience in performing several nonsurgical and surgical treatments for tendonitis, such as:

Tendon repair
Tendon release
De Quervain's tendon release surgery
Trigger finger release surgery
Cubital tunnel release surgery

To consult with Dr. Barnes at Mountain Valley Orthopedics, please schedule an appointment online or call (570) 421-7020.