Tendonitis, also known as tendinitis, is a condition characterized by inflammation or irritation of a tendon, the thick fibrous cord that connects muscles to bones. It commonly occurs due to repetitive movements, overuse, or injury, resulting in pain, tenderness, and swelling in the affected area. Tendonitis can occur in various parts of the body, such as the shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee, or ankle.

Key aspects of tendonitis include:

• Causes: Tendonitis often develops as a result of repetitive motions or activities that put stress on the tendons. These activities may include sports, such as tennis or golf, repetitive manual labor, or excessive computer or smartphone use. Tendonitis can also be caused by sudden, forceful movements or inadequate warm-up before physical activity.
• Common Locations: Tendonitis can affect different tendons in the body, with some of the most common sites being the rotator cuff tendons in the shoulder, the Achilles tendon in the heel, the patellar tendon in the knee, the wrist tendons, and the elbow tendons (such as the tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow).
• Symptoms: The primary symptom of tendonitis is pain in the affected area. The pain may worsen with movement or activity and may be accompanied by tenderness, swelling, and a feeling of stiffness or limited range of motion. In some cases, a small bump or nodule may be felt along the tendon.
• Treatment: Treatment for tendonitis aims to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Initial treatment typically involves rest, avoiding activities that worsen the symptoms, applying ice packs, and taking over-the-counter pain medications. Physical therapy is often recommended to stretch and strengthen the affected tendon, improve flexibility, and correct any contributing factors like muscle imbalances or improper movement patterns. In some cases, treatments like acupuncture and electromedicine may be used to enhance healing and pain relief.
• Rehabilitation and Prevention: Rehabilitation for tendonitis focuses on a gradual return to activity, strengthening the muscles around the affected tendon, and addressing any underlying issues that contributed to the condition. Prevention of tendonitis involves proper warm-up and stretching before physical activity, using proper technique and equipment, taking regular breaks during repetitive tasks, and maintaining overall fitness and flexibility.