Inflammation or irritation of a tendon, typically from overuse. Distinguished by swelling and tenderness of affected tendon, and pain during movement. May occur on any tendon in the body, but usually occurs around the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and heels.

Most commonly an overuse injury resulting from the tendon making the same movement repetitively. Risk of injury is increased if the repetitive motion is not made properly. Also results from aging or certain diseases, such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis. Individuals involved in sports or who have an occupation requiring a large amount of physical exertion, repetitive motions, overhead reaching, and awkward positions may be at increased risk.

Treatment involves reducing pain and inflammation in the affected tendon with anti-inflammatory medications, compression bandages, and strength-building in the affected area by performing stretching and straightening exercises.

If tendonitis is treated early, it will usually resolve quickly without complications. In a minority of patients, tendonitis may recur or become chronic. If the tendonitis occurred due to overuse or repetitive motion, patient should consider changing behaviors.

Related topics: Achilles tendonitis, calcific tendonitis, patellar tendinopathy, proximal biceps tendonitis, quadriceps tendinopathy, rotator cuff tendonitis, semimembranosus tendinopathy