Tendons are soft tissues that attach muscle to bones. Due to certain factors, they can become inflamed and even tear. An inflamed tendon, or tendonitis, needs to be properly managed, so the pain does not overwhelm you. A tear, on the other hand, needs immediate medical intervention.
Tendonitis is one orthopedic condition that can be managed through natural treatment. Natural, meaning not involving medicine or surgery. Here, we will talk about several natural remedies for tendonitis.
Rest
Resting the affected area is crucial for allowing the tendon to heal. Rest means taking a break from activities that involve the heavy use of the tendon. This is very important to put into practice, especially when you get a flare-up. Not getting enough rest can cause further inflammation in the tendon, leading to more complications and damage.
Ice Therapy
Applying ice packs on the affected area helps reduce swelling and pain associated with tendonitis. This is accomplished by constricting blood vessels and numbing nerve endings around the injury site. It’s best to apply an ice pack every two hours during acute episodes of pain and inflammation from tendonitis, up to 20 minutes at a time with an hour between applications, especially during the first 48 hours after the injury.
Compression Wraps
Wearing compression wraps helps reduce swelling by providing support around injured tendons, while also helping increase blood circulation to the area, which promotes healing. Avoid wrapping it too tight, so that it doesn’t cut off circulation. Wear loose-fitting clothing over the compression wrap for greater comfort.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapists use a variety of techniques, such as stretching, massage, ultrasound therapy, and electrical stimulation, to help reduce inflammation and promote healing of the injured tendon. Exercises are also part of the program, with a special focus on stretching for increased flexibility and strengthening of the weakened areas that contribute to the development of tendonitis.
Turmeric
Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Adding turmeric to your diet by drinking turmeric milk, cooking with turmeric, or taking a turmeric supplement may help reduce inflammation and pain associated with tendonitis.
However, check first with your doctor before adding turmeric to your diet, as this can interfere with certain medications and might not sit right with people diagnosed with diabetes, GERD, or liver and bile duct problems.
Ginger
Ginger is another herb that has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce pain and inflammation from tendonitis. Add fresh ginger to your diet by brewing it or take a ginger supplement. People with diabetes and heart conditions should consult their doctor first.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Tendonitis is one orthopedic condition that responds well to omega-3 supplementation. However, it is best to get omega-3 from your diet, such as through fatty salmon and sardines. Omega-3 is a powerful anti-inflammatory that offers many other health benefits, too.
Tendonitis Treatment in San Antonio, TX
The orthopedic doctors at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine in San Antonio are trained in sports medicine. We can examine the area of concern, determine the type of injury you have, and recommend the proper course of treatment. Our treatment programs are comprehensive, containing different methods, including natural treatments, to help you recover from your tendon injury.
To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, call us today at (210) 692-7400 or use our online form to send an appointment request.
