Tendinitis is a condition that results from an irritated tendon. A tendon is a thick band of flexible tissue that attaches muscle to bone. Tendons are found in the shoulders, elbows, biceps, hands, wrists, knees, calves, and ankles. When stretched or torn, tendons become inflamed (known as tendinitis), and you experience tenderness and pain, particularly in the areas near a joint. This type of injury tends to reoccur in the same area.
The most common types of tendinitis are tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, jumper’s knee, and bicep tendonitis.
Tennis Elbow
Also known as lateral epicondylitis, tennis elbow results from repetitive motions of the wrist and arm. The pain is felt on the outside of the elbow, beginning at the bony protrusion and ending at the wrist. As the name suggests, it is common in people who play tennis to develop this condition, but it is not exclusive to them. Tennis elbow is an occupational or workplace injury common among plumbers, painters, and carpenters.
Golfer’s Elbow
Medial epicondylitis is another term for golfer’s elbow. The pain of golfer’s elbow can extend from inside your elbow to your forearm and wrist. It often develops from repetitive grasping motions, similar to what golfer’s do when they play. It may be named after the sport, but golfer’s elbow also occurs in people who play racket sports, throwing sports, and do weight training. Repetitive occupational movements can also cause golfer’s elbow.
Jumper’s Knee
Also known as patellar tendonitis, jumper’s knee is an injury to the tendon that connects your kneecap to your shinbone. Jumping and kicking motions in volleyball, basketball, or soccer can lead to this type of injury. A sudden increase in activity intensity, tight or unconditioned muscles, or a medical condition can increase your risk of developing jumper’s knee.
Bicep Tendinitis
The bicep tendons are located near the bicep muscles, which is at the front of the upper arm. One tendon attaches the muscle to the scapula bone and the other attaches the muscle to the radius bone. These tendons can develop tears due to overuse from hobbies or occupational duties involving the use of the upper arms. It is also common among baseball players, tennis players, golfers, and swimmers.
Tendinitis Treatment and Prevention in San Antonio, Texas
Just because tendinitis is common among people who play sports or have occupations that require repetitive motions doesn’t mean tendinitis can’t be prevented. The orthopaedic doctors at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine are experts at diagnosing and treating tendinitis and can also help you prevent repeated injuries. Tendinitis can prevent you from playing sports or give your best performance at work, which is why prevention is a critical part of our comprehensive tendinitis treatment plan. We have superior rehabilitation services for our patients.
There is no need to prolong your discomfort and delay treatment for tendinitis of any kind. Begin your recovery now. Call (210) 692-7400 to schedule an appointment with an orthopaedic surgeon or fill out our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you in our orthopaedic facility in San Antonio.
