Treatment of Tendonitis

Written by Na Hong Wei
Orthopedics
Updated on September 09, 2024
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The causes of tendinitis usually fall into the following three categories: The first is acute injury, commonly referred to as tendon strain. The initial step is to stop any activity, followed by immobilization of the affected tendon area. Immobilization typically involves allowing the part to be completely relaxed, under no pressure, and is usually for a period of three weeks. The second cause is chronic overuse, which is the most common reason for tendinitis. It frequently occurs at sites of bony protrusions or where there is a tunnel, and this can easily lead to constrictive tendinitis. Treatment might start with rest, followed by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs if rest is ineffective. Then, injection treatments are considered, typically around three times; symptoms or pain from tendinitis will significantly reduce or even disappear. If there is no improvement after three injections, a fourth should not be attempted, and surgical treatment to release the tendon and alleviate the constriction may be considered. The last cause is due to a purulent infection. This condition requires symptomatic treatment, initially with antibiotics, followed by cultures and sensitivity tests of the effusion. If the infection occurs adjacent to the tendon or in the tendon sheath, surgery might be necessary to perform drainage again. In summary, the treatment of tendinitis largely depends on the specific cause and involves different approaches.

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Written by Guan Jing Tao
Orthopedics
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Will tendinitis gradually heal by itself?

The answer is negative. Even minor injuries, if not properly addressed and managed, can gradually develop into more severe and chronic diseases. This later affects normal daily life. Tendonitis, for example, is mostly caused by repetitive stretching, severe tearing, or corresponding work-related strain. Therefore, the first step is rest. Additionally, local applications of topical plasters or physical therapies like thermotherapy, acupuncture, and appropriate spectrum treatments can alleviate localized pain and swelling. However, at least two to four weeks of rest is required. After recovery, it is also necessary to avoid repetitive stretching and excessive physical strain to prevent recurrence.

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Written by Guan Yu Hua
Orthopedic Surgery
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Why does tendonitis recur?

Tendonitis, if not well-rested, can easily recur. It mostly occurs during activities, work, or exercise, presenting with pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Tendonitis primarily involves the tendons, which are very hard connective tissues connecting bones and muscles. Tendonitis is mainly caused by the excessive use of muscle fibers and repetitive strain leading to degenerative changes in tendon collagen fibers. This accumulation of degeneration in tendon collagen fibers is commonly referred to as tendinopathy. Examples include common types such as Achilles tendonitis, patellar tendonitis, quadriceps tendonitis, or injuries to the rotator cuff, and lateral epicondylitis of the humerus. Long-term repetitive friction and fatigue can easily cause repeated episodes in these areas. Strict immobilization, along with physical therapy, massage, electric stimulation, and heat application can help alleviate symptoms. Additionally, taking blood-activating and pain-relieving medications, and when necessary, undergoing injective treatments can effectively prevent recurrences and promote relief, reducing symptoms.

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Written by Na Hong Wei
Orthopedics
1min 29sec home-news-image

Treatment of Tendonitis

The causes of tendinitis usually fall into the following three categories: The first is acute injury, commonly referred to as tendon strain. The initial step is to stop any activity, followed by immobilization of the affected tendon area. Immobilization typically involves allowing the part to be completely relaxed, under no pressure, and is usually for a period of three weeks. The second cause is chronic overuse, which is the most common reason for tendinitis. It frequently occurs at sites of bony protrusions or where there is a tunnel, and this can easily lead to constrictive tendinitis. Treatment might start with rest, followed by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs if rest is ineffective. Then, injection treatments are considered, typically around three times; symptoms or pain from tendinitis will significantly reduce or even disappear. If there is no improvement after three injections, a fourth should not be attempted, and surgical treatment to release the tendon and alleviate the constriction may be considered. The last cause is due to a purulent infection. This condition requires symptomatic treatment, initially with antibiotics, followed by cultures and sensitivity tests of the effusion. If the infection occurs adjacent to the tendon or in the tendon sheath, surgery might be necessary to perform drainage again. In summary, the treatment of tendinitis largely depends on the specific cause and involves different approaches.

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Written by Wang Cheng Lin
Orthopedics
33sec home-news-image

How to treat tendinitis and synovitis?

How to treat tendinitis and synovitis? Generally, the current approach is to first start with conservative treatments for tendinitis and synovitis. Conservative treatments include acupuncture, massage, physical therapy, topical ointments, and oral medications, all of which can help alleviate the symptoms of tendinitis and synovitis. However, if there is no improvement after more than six months of treatment, or if the symptoms, such as increasing pain, worsen, then a minimally invasive surgery might be necessary to provide relief.

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Written by Na Hong Wei
Orthopedics
40sec home-news-image

The difference between tendinitis and gout

The difference between tendinitis and gout is significant; these are two completely different diseases, although their symptoms are similar, including redness, swelling, heat, pain, and functional impairment. Tendinitis generally involves the muscles and tendons and is a type of aseptic inflammation caused by various reasons. In contrast, gout is due to abnormal metabolism of purines in the body, leading to the accumulation of gouty tophi in the joints, producing inflammatory symptoms. Therefore, tendinitis and gout are fundamentally different diseases.