How to treat extensor tendinitis of the foot?

Written by Li Jin
Orthopedics
Updated on April 02, 2025
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For the treatment of extensor tendinitis of the foot, it is firstly important to rest and avoid intense activities to prevent exacerbating the symptoms, and also to avoid exposure to cold. When pain occurs, anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications can be used to alleviate inflammation and pain. Additionally, treatments such as hot compresses, foot baths, and physical therapy can be used to promote blood circulation and improve symptoms. Local block treatments can also be effective in relieving inflammation. When conservative treatments are ineffective or motion is restricted due to tissue adhesions, surgical treatment can be considered.

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Written by Na Hong Wei
Orthopedics
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Symptoms of tendonitis

The symptoms of tendonitis basically come down to three points. First, pain or a fixed tender point, generally located around joints or nearby areas, with severe cases possibly exhibiting numbness or tingling. Second, dysfunction, which is due to the stiffness of the joint associated with pain which limits joint movement, and occasionally there is mild swelling of the joint. Furthermore, if the tendon pain reoccurs from the originally damaged site and continues for a long time or recurs, it can lead to stiffness in the joint, subsequently resulting in limited joint mobility. The third point is the inflammatory response; tendonitis has specific signs of inflammation, including redness, swelling, heat, pain, and dysfunction.

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Written by Na Hong Wei
Orthopedics
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How to treat the symptoms of tendinitis

The symptoms of tendinitis firstly include pain, which develops from mild to severe and can be alleviated by rest. However, the pain reoccurs or escalates with physical activity or increased intensity of movement. Additionally, the greater the activity, the shorter the relief period. The second symptom is restricted movement primarily due to pain. Pain causes limitations when moving the limb in certain ways or directions, increasing the pain and thereby causing movement restrictions. Typically, tendinitis presents a fixed tender point usually located at the site of injury, with possible radiating pain around the tender point. Swelling is generally not prominent; the primary characteristic of tendinitis is severe pain, with no significant changes in the skin and minimal or very light swelling. As for treatment, conservative approaches are commonly chosen, such as standard treatments involving immobilization, rest, and protecting the affected area. Oral non-steroidal drugs might be used along with localized treatments, or physical therapies like microwave and shockwave therapies, which are quite effective. If symptoms do not improve or worsen despite rigorous conservative treatment, surgical intervention may be necessary. The specific surgical techniques vary and are determined by the surgeon.

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Written by Na Hong Wei
Orthopedics
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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 Su Zhen Bo
Orthopedics
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How is calcific tendinitis treated?

The patient suffers from calcific tendinitis, and conservative treatment can be the first choice. It is necessary to reduce the external stimulus on the local lesion and keep it warm. Apply heat treatments, frequently use spectrum meters for electrotherapy, physiotherapy devices, infrared therapy devices, and lamp treatments. Use traditional Chinese medicine washes that activate blood circulation, relieve stasis, and alleviate muscle pain for steaming and soaking. Increasing the local temperature can unblock normal circulation of Qi and blood, soften the local tendon tissues, and alleviate symptoms such as pain and swelling, and also improve the range of motion locally. If there is a clear pain point locally, closed injection techniques can be used, and small needle knife treatments can be utilized to pry and loosen the area. Alternatively, oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs, along with strengthening functional exercises at the lesion site, can help in the recovery of the condition.

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Written by Lv Yao
Orthopedics
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What should be paid attention to with tendinitis?

When tendonitis occurs, the first thing to do is to rest and avoid excessive bending and extending of the tendon. Tendonitis is a sterile, chronic inflammation of the tendon due to overuse, which can lead to pain and impaired movement. It is important to avoid excessive bending and loading activities, and some physical therapy, hot compresses, and the topical application of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be used for symptomatic treatment.