Tendons, located throughout your body, attach muscles to bones to enable movement. If injured or overused, tendons can become inflamed or irritated and develop into a condition called tendinitis. If treated early, recovery can be achieved through conservative treatments such as rest and ice. If severe or left untreated, however, a more aggressive treatment approach might be required tendinitis.
Medication
According to the Mayo Clinic, many cases of tendinitis can be treated with rest, ice and over-the-counter medications. If your symptoms are severe, however, your doctor may need to give you a prescription for anti-inflammatory and pain medication. A cortisone shot, which delivers anti-inflammatory medication directly to the site of the injury, might also be helpful. Injections need to be used with caution, however, as too many cortisone shots can eventually weaken the tendon even more.
Splinting
If general rest does not calm your tendinitis, you might need to immobilize the area. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, claims that this can be done using bands, splints or orthotics (if the foot is involved) to help take pressure off of the tendon. This will also restrict your range of motion while your injury heals. According to the American College of Rheumatology, you may need to completely rest the area and avoid activities that make your symptoms worse. If the tendinitis is in your lower body, you may need to use a cane to take weight off of the affected area.
Surgery
If your tendinitis does not respond to the above treatments, or if the tendon tears or ruptures, you will need surgery. This option is reserved for severe symptoms or cases in which there is loss of function in the affected area. The Cleveland Clinic states that, through surgery, inflamed tissue can be removed, tears can be repaired or sewn, and tendons can be lengthened or shortened. Your surgeon will need to perform a full exam in order to determine what type of surgery is required.
