TENDONITIS


 

TENDONITIS (OR TENDINITIS) IS AN INFLAMMATION OR IRRITATION OF A TENDON, A THICK CORD THAT ATTACHES BONE TO MUSCLE.


Tendonitis is most often caused by repetitive, minor impact on the affected area, or from a sudden more serious injury. It also commonly occurs from overuse after a period of non-use. Anyone can get tendonitis, but it is more common in adults, especially those over 40 years of age. As tendons age they tolerate less stress, are less elastic, and are easier to tear.

Tendonitis can occur in almost any area of the body where a tendon connects a bone to a muscle. The most common places are elbows, shoulders, knees, hips, and achilles tendons. Initial treatment includes resting the affected area, applying ice to the area, taking anti-inflammatory medication, and avoiding activities that aggravate the problem.