Tendinitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon – the fibrous tissue that connects muscles to bones, allowing joint movement and stability. This condition often appears due to repetitive movements that overload the tendon, direct trauma, or age-related wear. Without timely intervention, tendinitis can cause long-lasting discomfort and limit mobility.
People over 40 are more prone to tendinitis because tendons lose elasticity with age. However, athletes, manual laborers, and individuals whose work involves repetitive tasks are also at risk. Common signs include localized pain that worsens with movement, tenderness to touch, mild swelling, and, in more severe cases, restricted joint function.
If tendinitis is ignored, it can progress to chronic tendinopathy or tendon ruptures, which require longer recovery and sometimes surgery. Early diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan are crucial. At VenArt Clinic, our medical team provides personalized care for each patient, using modern diagnostic tools and targeted therapies for effective results.
Certain conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, thyroid imbalances, obesity, or pregnancy can also increase the risk of tendinitis.
Tendinitis in the Shoulder: A Common Cause of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain is often caused by inflammation of the tendons forming the rotator cuff. This group of muscles and tendons stabilizes the shoulder joint and makes arm movement possible. When these tendons become inflamed from repetitive use or injury, stiffness and pain can develop, sometimes limiting daily activities and sleep quality.
What Causes Tendinitis in the Shoulder?
Repetitive shoulder movements, overuse during sports or work, or direct trauma can cause shoulder tendinitis. Individuals involved in activities like painting, lifting, or playing sports like tennis or swimming are more at risk.
The main tendons affected include:
- Supraspinatus tendon
- Infraspinatus tendon
- Teres minor tendon
- Subscapularis tendon
- Long head of the biceps brachii tendon
Pain usually appears when lifting the arm or performing overhead activities and may worsen at night.
Tendinitis in the Hand: Causes, Symptoms, and Types
Hand tendinitis develops when tendons in the palm or wrist area become irritated and inflamed. Over time, the tendon may thicken and lose flexibility, causing pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the fingers or wrist.
People who perform repetitive manual tasks – such as athletes, gardeners, construction workers, musicians, or those who work with tools – are at increased risk. Hand tendinitis can significantly affect everyday tasks, from gripping objects to typing or using utensils.
Common Types of Tendinitis in the Hand and Their Characteristics
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis:
This type affects tendons around the base of the thumb and wrist. Pain worsens with grasping or twisting motions, such as opening jars or turning keys. Discomfort is often more intense in the morning and may radiate up the forearm.
Trigger Finger:
This condition locks a finger in a bent position due to swelling of the flexor tendon. It may snap painfully when straightened, causing stiffness and tenderness at the base of the finger.
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis):
Despite its name, tennis elbow affects the tendons around the outside of the elbow, commonly impacting forearm muscles and tendons that extend to the wrist. Pain may radiate down the forearm and worsen with gripping or lifting.
Tendinitis in the Knee
Known as “jumper’s knee,” patellar tendinitis is inflammation of the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone. It frequently affects athletes involved in jumping or running sports. Microtears can develop from repeated strain, causing pain below the kneecap, swelling, and weakness during leg extension.
Tendinitis in the Ankle: Peroneal Tendinitis
Peroneal tendinitis develops when the peroneal tendons, which run along the outer ankle, become inflamed due to overuse or sudden movements. These tendons help stabilize the ankle and protect against sprains. Athletes in sports involving frequent running or quick direction changes are especially at risk. Symptoms include pain behind the outer ankle bone, swelling, and instability when walking or running.
How Do We Treat Different Types of Tendinitis?
Treatment always starts with rest and avoiding activities that triggered the condition. Depending on the location and severity, options include:
Shoulder and Hand Tendinitis:
Rest, temporary immobilization, physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles, and anti-inflammatory medication are first-line options. In some cases, corticosteroid injections or ultrasound therapy may be recommended.
Knee Tendinitis:
Mild cases respond to rest, ice or heat, stretching, and strengthening exercises guided by a physiotherapist. Persistent pain may require medications, injections, or, rarely, surgical intervention.
Peroneal Tendinitis:
Resting and elevating the foot, applying ice, and using compression can reduce swelling. If conservative treatment does not resolve symptoms, a specialist may suggest injections or surgery.
VenArt Clinic designs tailored treatment plans for each patient. Our medical team uses advanced diagnostic tools and modern therapies to ensure the best possible recovery.
Ignoring recurring pain can lead to chronic damage and longer recovery. If you suspect tendinitis, consult a specialist early to prevent complications.
For complete diagnosis and care, book a consultation with our dedicated doctors.
Medical Consultant: Dr. Jean-Marc Chaudruc
