Tendinitis

Tendinitis is a common condition characterized by inflammation or irritation of a tendon, the tissue that connects muscle to bone. It often develops due to repetitive movements, overuse, or strain and can affect tendons throughout the body, including the shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, and ankles.

While tendinitis is often related to mechanical stress, proper evaluation helps ensure symptoms are not related to underlying inflammatory conditions.

What Is Tendinitis?

Tendinitis refers to irritation and inflammation of a tendon, leading to pain and reduced function. The condition may develop gradually or suddenly and is often associated with repetitive activities or increased physical demands.

Unlike autoimmune arthritis, tendinitis is typically mechanical in origin, though inflammation plays a role in symptom development.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of tendinitis may include:

• Localized pain near a joint
• Tenderness along the affected tendon
• Pain that worsens with movement or activity
• Mild swelling
• Reduced strength or function

Symptoms may improve with rest but can recur if underlying factors persist.

What Causes Tendinitis?

Tendinitis may result from several factors, including:

• Repetitive motion or overuse
• Sudden increases in activity intensity
• Poor biomechanics or technique
• Muscle weakness or imbalance
• Age-related tendon changes

Multiple factors may contribute simultaneously.

How Is Tendinitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation and may include:

• Review of activity history and symptom triggers
• Physical examination assessing tenderness and movement
• Imaging studies when needed to evaluate tendon structure
• Additional testing if inflammatory conditions are suspected

Accurate diagnosis helps guide effective treatment.

Treatment Options for Tendinitis

Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and supporting tendon healing. Options may include:

• Activity modification and rest
• Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility
• Pain management strategies when appropriate
• Targeted injections in select cases
• Advanced therapies for persistent symptoms
• Infusion-based treatments are generally not required

Early management often leads to better outcomes.

When to See a Rheumatologist

A rheumatology evaluation may be appropriate if you experience:

• Persistent tendon pain not improving with conservative care
• Tendon symptoms affecting multiple sites
• Signs suggesting inflammatory involvement

Specialized care can help clarify diagnosis.

Our Approach to Treating Tendinitis

Our approach emphasizes individualized care focused on symptom relief, functional restoration, and prevention of recurrence. Treatment plans are adjusted based on response and activity demands.

Schedule a Consultation

If tendon pain is limiting your movement or daily activities, scheduling a consultation can help identify contributing factors and guide appropriate treatment options.