Tendonitis is the swelling of a tendon, which is a thick cord attaching a muscle to a bone. It can cause joint pain and stiffness.
Symptoms of tendonitis include pain, stiffness and swelling in a joint.
You can usually treat tendonitis with rest, ice packs, compression and elevation. A GP may prescribe painkillers or recommend physiotherapy.
Tendonitis is most often caused by sudden movements or repetitive exercise, such as running, jumping or throwing.
Symptoms of tendonitis include pain, stiffness and swelling in a joint.
There are tendons all over your body. They connect your muscles to bones, for example in your knees, elbows and shoulders.
The main symptoms of tendonitis are:
There are many different types of tendonitis, depending on which area of the body is affected.
You can usually treat tendonitis with rest, ice packs, compression and elevation. A GP may prescribe painkillers or recommend physiotherapy.
Follow the 4 steps known as RICE therapy for 2 to 3 days to help bring down swelling and support the injury:
To help prevent swelling during the first 2 to 3 days, try to avoid:
When you can move the injured area without pain stopping you, try to keep moving it so the tendon does not become stiff.
Your doctor may prescribe a stronger painkiller or cream or gel to bring down the swelling.
If your injury is severe or lasts a long time, you may be offered physiotherapy. You can also choose to book appointments privately.
You may be referred to hospital for a scan if your doctor thinks you could have another injury, such as a broken bone.
Some people with long-term or severe tendonitis may be offered:
Tendonitis is most often caused by sudden movements or repetitive exercise, such as running, jumping or throwing.