Tendinitis is a common condition that affects many people, especially those who engage in physical activities or repetitive movements for work. Tendinitis is caused by inflammation or irritation of a tendon, which is a thick, fibrous cord that attaches muscle to bone. Tendinitis can occur in any muscle of the body, but it is most commonly associated with overuse, such as playing sports, hobbies or repetitive work movements.

The Many Types of Tendinitis

There are different types of tendinitis problems that you may have heard of, such as tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, pitcher’s shoulder, swimmer’s shoulder, or jumper’s knee. These conditions are characterized by mild swelling, pain, tenderness, and a dull ache that may worsen with movement.

How to Lower Your Risk of Tendinitis

To reduce your chances of developing tendinitis, it is important to take care of your body and prevent overuse injuries. One effective method is to apply ice to the affected area, which helps reduce inflammation and swelling. Stretching before and after physical activities can also help prevent tendinitis by improving flexibility and range of motion. Proper workplace ergonomics is also essential, as it helps reduce the strain on your muscles and joints.

Additionally, strengthening the muscles that are used in the particular activity that is causing you discomfort can also help prevent tendinitis. Cross-training, which involves participating in different activities that use different muscle groups, can also help reduce the risk of repetitive strain on the same muscles.

What are My Next Steps? 

If you are experiencing signs and symptoms of tendinitis, it is important to seek help from a physical therapist. At Bodyworks, our physical therapists have the knowledge and tools to help you progress back to pain-free sports, hobbies, or repetitive work movements. They can help you develop a personalized treatment plan that includes exercises, manual therapy, and other techniques that will help reduce pain and improve mobility. You can recover from tendinitis and return to the activities you love with proper treatment and care.