Tendinit

Tendinit, commonly referred to as tendinitis in English, is a condition involving pain and tenderness in a tendon or its surrounding sheath, usually near a joint. In many cases, especially chronic ones, the term tendinopathy is preferred because degenerative changes in the tendon may occur with little active inflammation.

Symptoms typically include localized pain that worsens with movement or activity, tenderness to touch, stiffness after periods of rest, and sometimes mild swelling or warmth over the affected area. The onset can follow an increase in activity, repetitive strain, an acute injury, or aging-related tendon changes. Pain may be intermittent at first and gradually become more persistent.

Causes and risk factors include repetitive overhead or pushing/pulling movements, sudden increases in exercise intensity, poor technique, inadequate conditioning, and age-related tendon degeneration. Specific conditions named after their tendon locations include lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow), Achilles tendinopathy, and De Quervain’s tenosynovitis. It is important to distinguish tendinopathy from infectious or inflammatory joint diseases.

Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on history and physical examination. Imaging such as ultrasound or MRI can help confirm tendon degeneration, assess severity, or rule out tears, especially when pain persists or there is functional limitation.

Treatment is primarily conservative and aims to reduce pain and promote tendon healing. Initial steps include rest from aggravating activities, ice, compression, elevation, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for short-term relief. Physical therapy with eccentric strengthening exercises, gradual return to activity, and proper loading are central. Corticosteroid injections may be considered in selected cases but carry risks, including tendon rupture. Surgery is rarely needed for persistent or complex cases.

Prognosis is generally favorable with appropriate management, though recovery can take weeks to months. Prevention focuses on proper warm-up, gradual progression of activity, strength training, technique optimization, and adequate recovery.