Joint issues can be absolutely debilitating. Tasks that once took no effort can become impossible to complete, such as tying your shoes, carrying groceries, or holding a child. One of the most common culprits of joint issues, especially in the arm, is tendonitis. At Boston Hand to Shoulder, we specialize in diagnosing and treating tendonitis, helping you to return to your pain-free, everyday life.

What Is Tendonitis?

A tendon, sometimes called sinew, is the strong, fibrous cord of tissue that connects muscles to bones throughout the human body. When a muscle contracts, the tendon pulls on the bone, allowing your limbs and joints to bend or straighten. Tendonitis is when tendons become irritated or inflamed, causing pain and the inability to use the joint to its full potential.

Symptoms

Tendonitis can often be recognized by its distinct symptoms. Key tendonitis symptoms include:

  • Pain in the area of the affected joint. This usually presents as a dull ache that worsens with movement or activity, rather than a sharp pain.
  • Stiffness in the affected joint, limiting range of motion. Stiffness is often at its worst in the morning.
  • Tenderness in the affected joint, resulting in discomfort when the area is pressed or touched.
  • Swelling around the affected joint. This can be accompanied by a red appearance and/or a feeling of warmth.
  • A popping sound or feeling when moving the affected joint.


If you are experiencing one or more of the above symptoms, it is quite possible that you are suffering from tendonitis. However, to know for sure, you will need the opinion of a medical professional. One of our arm specialists can give you a proper diagnosis.

What Causes Tendonitis

As tendonitis is simply the inflammation or irritation of tendons, it has a myriad of causes. The most common of which include:

  • Repetitive Motions: Engaging in the same motion over and over again places stress on the tendons. Such motions are often found in certain types of work, hobbies, and sports.
  • Sudden Activity Increase: Suddenly beginning a strenuous routine without building up to it can overload the tendons.
  • Trauma: Sudden blows or other injuries can damage the tendons.


Older age and certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can also increase your chances of suffering from tendonitis.

Parts of the Body Affected

Tendons are found throughout the body, connecting muscle to bone, meaning that tendonitis can affect almost any body part. However, it is primarily found around joints. At Boston Hand to Shoulder, we specialize in tendonitis that affects areas of the arm and shoulder, including:


If you are feeling any pain or discomfort in these areas, we can diagnose you and form a treatment plan tailored to your specific case.

Tendonitis Treatment

Tendonitis is first treated with conservative methods. This includes rest, icing the area, compression sleeves, and elevating the affected area. Medications, such as NSAIDs, are also used to mitigate pain. In more severe cases, cortisone shots may be used. After pain reaches tolerable levels, physical therapy is used to strengthen the tendon and prevent future injuries.

If conservative methods fall short, then surgical intervention may be considered. This is often done using arthroscopy, a minimally invasive surgical technique, to remove damaged tissue or repair the area.

Which treatment is right for you will depend on the severity of your tendonitis. One of our arm specialists can perform a thorough exam and determine the best route to recovery for you.