Tendonitis is inflammation (swelling) of a tendon. It can cause pain and stiffness in the affected area.
Tendonitis can affect tendons around the:
- shoulder
- elbow
- wrist
- finger
- thigh
- knee
- back of the heel
Read more about the symptoms of tendonitis.
Usually, painkillers and an ice pack relieve symptoms before the tendonitis goes away after a few days. It's important to stop doing the activity, such as sport, that caused it. More persistent cases of tendonitis may need physiotherapy or shock wave therapy.
Read more about treating tendonitis.
Tendonitis is quite common and can affect anyone. Tendons become less elastic and weaker over time, making tendonitis more common in elderly people.
What are tendons?
Tendons are tough, rubbery cords that link muscles to bones. They help move the bones and joints when the muscles contract. For example, the tendons you can see on the back of your hands move your fingers and are joined to the muscles in the forearm.
Some tendons are covered with a protective sheath of tissue called synovium. Between the synovium and the tendon is a small amount of greasy fluid. This helps the tendon move easily and prevents friction.
Tenosynovitis
If the sheath surrounding the tendon (rather than the tendon itself) becomes inflamed, the condition is called tenosynovitis. Tendonitis and tenosynovitis can occur at the same time.
Experts use the term "tendinopathies" to describe tendon injuries collectively.
Causes of tendonitis
Tendonitis is caused by:
Read more about the causes of tendonitis.
