Tendinitis

What is tendinitis?

Tendinitis refers to pain and irritation involving a tendon, the structure that connects muscle to bone. It often develops after repetitive strain, overload, sudden increase in activity, or a specific movement pattern that stresses the tendon. Common sites include the shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee, and heel. ^[1][2][3]

What are the symptoms?

Typical symptoms include localized pain, tenderness, stiffness, pain with movement, and sometimes mild swelling. Pain may be worse at the start of activity or after repeated use. Because different tendon problems can present similarly, the term tendinitis is often used broadly in everyday language. ^[1][2]

What causes it and who gets it more often?

Overuse, sports, repetitive work, poor biomechanics, sudden training increase, and age-related tendon changes may all contribute. The condition is common in physically active people, manual workers, and anyone who repeats the same movement pattern frequently. ^[1][2][3]

How is it diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually based on history and physical examination. Clinicians assess pain location, movement-related symptoms, tenderness, and function. Imaging is not necessary in every case, but ultrasound or MRI may be used if the diagnosis is unclear, symptoms are persistent, or a tear is suspected. ^[1][2]

Treatment options

Treatment usually includes relative rest rather than complete immobilization, activity modification, gradual loading, pain control, and targeted exercise. In the early stage, some people benefit from ice. The best approach depends on the location, severity, and duration of symptoms. ^[1][2][3]

Prevention and when to seek medical care

Warm-up, training progression, ergonomics, and appropriate exercise technique may reduce risk. Medical review is advisable if pain is severe, persistent, associated with marked weakness, follows a snapping sensation, or significantly limits daily function. ^[1][2]