Tendonitis is the inflammation of one or more tendons. A tendon is the strong band of tissue that connects a muscle to a bone. When you use too much force on a tendon, it can be more vulnerable to sustaining injuries.
Because this is an inflammation, tendonitis typically develops over time as a result of repetitive motion and overuse. The condition can affect various parts of the body, especially the wrists, shoulders, elbows, knees, and feet.
Let’s talk about what types of occupations tend to cause inflammation of the tendons and who can help you if you are developing pain while at work.
How Can My Occupation Cause Tendonitis?
Since tendonitis is typically caused by either overuse or overload, specific fields of occupation can increase the risk of developing the condition in certain ways. The following are categories of the occupations that are most likely to cause tendonitis:
Manual Labor
Occupations that require repetitive movements of the arms and/or legs tend to increase the risk of developing tendonitis. Some examples include the following:
- Construction workers must frequently extend their arms away from their body.
- Carpenters also perform repetitive arm movements, such as swinging their hammers.
- Mechanical repair workers and assembly workers require the use of certain muscles for a prolonged period every day.
- Artists, painters, and hairdressers also fall under this category.
- Maintenance workers often must use their arm muscles to make repairs, and this can cause overuse injury.
Even if you do not have to perform heavy lifting, the repeated movement of the shoulders, elbows, and wrists can lead to the swelling of the tendon.
Desk Jobs and Computer-Related Jobs
Office jobs and professions that require frequent or constant computer use may also increase the risk of tendonitis. These jobs require you to use your arms and hands when using the keyboard and the mouse, which causes tension and strain to the shoulder, elbow, and wrist.
Frequent computer use also requires constant forward-reaching. If you combine a poor sitting posture with this, it can cause further strain and inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder and wrist. Your doctor can explain the best method to help alleviate your joint pain.
Jobs that Require Frequent Reaching
Professions that require you to reach overhead to shelves and down into drawers can cause strain on the joints and tendons. Some examples of these occupations are shop attendants, librarians, and warehouse staff.
Sports Professions
Athletes are also susceptible to tendonitis, especially in the part of the body which is enduring overuse. Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow occur when the tendons most impacted in the elbow become swollen due to swinging the tennis racquet or the golf club.
Tendonitis Treatment in San Antonio, Texas
When you experience joint pain, it’s essential to seek medical care. An orthopedic doctor can examine your condition and determine the type of treatment that is best for you. The sooner you seek a medical evaluation, the more likely it is to be resolved with minimal medication and simple modifications to the way you work.
If you are in or near San Antonio and you are experiencing joint pain, reach out to our specialists at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine. Our team of experienced physicians can help treat your damaged tendon and get you back to enjoying a pain-free life again.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, call us today at (210) 692-7400. You can also request an appointment through our convenient online form. Get back to moving!
