Can tendinitis be treated with an injection?

Written by Na Hong Wei
Orthopedics
Updated on September 08, 2024
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Tendonitis can be treated with injections, which provide both anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, often resulting in a very satisfactory therapeutic outcome. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind when performing these injections: First, the injection site must be free of infection and dermatitis; the skin must be clean and intact. Second, it is best to avoid injecting the medication near the attachment points of muscles or tendons on bones. In some cases, such as with femoral condyle osteoarthritis, injections near these points are necessary, but care should be taken not to inject directly into the attachment points to prevent tendon rupture at those sites, which are currently irreplaceable with current scientific techniques. Third, do not exceed three tendonitis injections. Many patients may recover after one or two injections, but some might go for a third if they do not feel significant improvement. If there is no noticeable benefit after three injections, or if the treatment is ineffective, the injection therapy might not be suitable for you, and other treatments should be considered. Therefore, while tendon injections can be an option for tendonitis, it is essential to apply the correct methods.

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Written by Li Jie
Orthopedics
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Can tendinitis be treated with moxibustion?

Tendonitis occurs commonly due to two reasons: overuse, which means excessive local activity, and trauma. Both causes lead to local aseptic inflammation of the tendon, resulting in edema, exudation, swelling, and pain. Moxibustion can be effective in this situation because it helps in activating blood circulation, reducing stasis, relieving swelling, and alleviating pain. The specific locations for applying moxibustion include the painful tendon area, and since the tendon is an extension of the muscle, not only the painful tendon area should be treated with moxibustion, but the entire muscle bundle can also be treated to help relieve overall muscle and tendon spasms and reduce pain.

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Written by Na Hong Wei
Orthopedics
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How to treat tendinitis?

Treatment of tendonitis is divided into four types. The first is conventional treatment, which involves following the RICE principle during the acute phase. The second is medication, which includes the use of non-steroidal drugs and the option of local injections, but repetitive injections are not recommended as they can lead to tendon rupture, such as the rupture of the Achilles tendon often caused by such treatment. The third approach is for patients with chronic conditions where the affected area has developed adhesions and conservative treatment is ineffective. In such cases, surgical treatment should be considered, though the drawbacks include significant trauma, pain, and a long recovery period. The fourth method involves physical therapy, including heat therapy, ultrasound treatment, and microwave treatment. Thus, the basic treatments for tendonitis encompass these four approaches.

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Written by Na Hong Wei
Orthopedics
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How to relieve tendonitis pain?

Tendonitis pain can usually be alleviated through the following methods: First, during the acute strain period, the RICE principle can be applied, which stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation of the affected limb. Second, you can take some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory painkillers. Third, you can consider undergoing injection therapy. Fourth, treatment with traditional Chinese medicine can also be considered, as it is very effective in treating tendonitis. Fifth, some physical therapies can also be considered, such as heat therapy, microwave therapy, and transdermal drug delivery. It is worth mentioning shockwave therapy, which has been extensively verified clinically and is very effective in treating tendonitis. Therefore, tendonitis pain is not to be feared, as the above methods can be tried for treatment.

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Written by Na Hong Wei
Orthopedics
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Can tendinitis be seen on an X-ray?

If you are referring to taking an X-ray, tendonitis can only be detected in one situation by X-ray, that is, if the tendonitis has caused calcification. Only then the calcification appears as a high density on the X-ray; otherwise, X-rays won’t show tendonitis. The best examination for tendonitis is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) because MRI excels in viewing soft tissue disorders, a capability unmatched by other examinations. So, if you suspect you have tendonitis, an MRI should be the first choice, and taking X-rays is not very significant.

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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.