What is Tendonitis?

overweight woman in squat position holding ball

Definition

Tendonitis refers to inflammation and irritation of the tendons from chronic overuse. It causes localized pain, tenderness, and reduced range of motion around joints.

Explanation

  • Repetitive strain like gripping, reaching, or running overloads tendon fibers until microtears and scar tissue occurs.
  • Tendonitis impairs function. Rest, ice, compression, anti-inflammatories, stretching and gradual strengthening rehab tendonitis.
  • Correcting form, improving flexibility, building surrounding muscles, and avoiding overtraining helps prevent future tendonitis.
  • Patellar, rotator cuff, wrist flexor, Achilles and elbow tendonitis are common in sports and repetitive jobs. Listen to pain signals.

Examples

  • Tennis elbow from repetitive backhand strokes and gripping motion.
  • Rotator cuff tendonitis from overloaded shoulder strain like swimming.

Related Terms

  • Tendinosis, tendinopathy, repetitive strain injury

Common Questions

  • What causes tendonitis? Chronic overuse through repetitive motions, poor mechanics, inflexibility, and strain.
  • Should I stop activity when it hurts? Yes, rest the affected area until pain and acute inflammation resolves before gradual return.

Do Not Confuse With

  • Arthritis – Joint inflammation not from overuse but age, wear and tear, autoimmune issues.
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