What is tendinitis?

Tendons are the bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones. You need tendons to help your body move. Tendinitis is when you have an inflamed (swollen) tendon.

Tendinitis can develop in many places in the body. It's most common in the shoulder, elbow, wrist and ankle.

Tendinitis can occur suddenly, such as during sport. This is called acute tendinitis. It can also happen over time with overuse or repeated movements. This is called chronic tendinitis.

Both tendinitis and tendinosis are types of tendinopathy (tendon injury).

What symptoms are related to tendinitis?

The main symptoms of tendinitis are:

• the tendon is sore to touch
• swelling
• pain when using the tendon
• feelings of weakness around the tendon

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What causes tendinitis?

Tendinitis is usually caused by

• placing too much load on the tendon
• repeated use of the same tendon
• not enough rest time between similar activities

How is the cause of tendinitis diagnosed?

To diagnose tendinitis, a doctor or physiotherapist will examine the area and ask about your symptoms. They may ask about any injuries.

Imaging tests such as MRI and ultrasounds may also help with the diagnosis, but are not always needed.

When should I see my doctor?

You should see a doctor or physiotherapist for advice if:

• you feel weakness in the tendon
• the pain is severe
• your pain does not improve over a few days
• the pain is worse in the morning or
• the pain is worse after being still for some time

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How is tendinitis treated?

The best treatment will depend on which tendon is affected. See a doctor or physiotherapist if the pain lasts more than a few days.

Self-care at home

Tendinitis often gets better with rest. You can also:

• avoid activities that increase your pain after the activity
• apply ice to the area
• use an anti-inflammatory medicine to help with pain

Other treatment options

After a few days of rest, it's important to do gentle exercise to encourage your tendon to heal. Try to gradually increase the amount of exercise that you can do. Your doctor or physiotherapist will advise which exercises are right for you.

It is not a good idea to have long periods of complete rest.

If your tendinitis does not get better, your doctor may suggest treatments such as shock wave therapy. You may be advised to wear a supportive brace. In rare cases, surgery may be needed.

Complications of tendinitis

Sometimes tendinopathy can take months or even years to fully heal. This slow recovery can be very challenging. You may have to change your daily activities to help with healing.

Can tendinitis be prevented?

You can help prevent further tendinitis by using the following tips:

• learn correct techniques if you play a sport
• slowly build up your level of physical activity
• rest between similar activities
• avoid movements that cause an increase in pain after the activity

Resources and support

The Emergency Care Institute offers a fact sheet about the causes, symptoms and treatment of common tendon injuries.

Visit The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) to learn how physiotherapy can help your injuries, and how to find a physiotherapist.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.