According to the Mayo Clinic, tendinitis is described as inflammation or irritation of a tendon (the thick fibrous cords attaching muscles to bones). This condition causes pain outside a joint and can occur in any of the body's tendons, though is most common around the elbows, shoulders, wrists and heels. Treatment for this condition can include rest, pain medications and in severe cases, surgery. The condition can affect anyone, though greater risks exist with athletes or those who perform continuous repetitive motions of the arms or legs. Aging also contributes to the risks of tendinitis, as tendons and muscles lose elasticity.
Patellar Tendinitis
Patellar tendinitis is an injury that affects the tendon that connects the kneecap to the shinbone. The patellar tendon is extremely important to everyday use of the leg, helping the muscles extend the lower leg. The first symptom is pain around the knee, particularly in the section of the patellar tendon between the kneecap and the area where the tendon attaches to the shinbone.
Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis occurs when the Achilles tendon, which connects the muscles in the lower leg to the heel bone. This may occur due to a sudden increase or intensity in exercise. Symptoms include a dull ache or pain when walking, rising, or pushing off the foot, and tenderness, stiffness, or swelling of the Achilles tendon.
Rotator Cuff Tendinitis
According to the Mayo Clinic, a rotator cuff injury can occur from any injury to the muscles or tendons in the shoulder. Repetitive arm movements, lifting or falling are some common ways to injure the rotator cuff. This injury is painful, resulting in shoulder weakness and loss of range of motion, but is mostly able to heal on its own.
Tennis Elbow /Golfer's Elbow
Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow tendinitis are caused by excessive use or strain on the tendons in the arms. Tennis elbow tendinitis results in pain on the outer side of the forearm, while golfer's elbow causes pain on the inner side of the elbow.
Prevention
Certain practices can help to prevent tendinitis or the recurring incidence of the condition. These practices include avoiding excessive stress on the joints, stopping an activity that causes pain, using stretching and warm-up techniques before sports or other activities, an ergonomic assessment to fit your body for workplace activities and to ensure the tendons do not become over-loaded, and strengthening muscles.
