Tendon Injuries

A tendon injury is any damage to the tissue that connects muscles to bones. These injuries range from minor strains and tendinitis to more severe tendon tears.

Tendon injuries are typically caused by acute or repetitive overuse, direct trauma, or underlying medical conditions such as arthritis. They commonly occur in areas with a lot of wear and tear, such as the elbows, shoulders, ankles, and knees.

Common treatments for tendon injuries include rest, physical therapy, exercises to improve flexibility and strength, braces or splints to reduce stress on the injured area, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen, and corticosteroid injections. Always check with a medical professional before taking any medicines.

To prevent a tendon injury, you should warm up properly before any physical activity, stretch regularly to keep your muscles and tendons loose, use the correct form when lifting weights, wear appropriate shoes for your workout, and take breaks between exercise or sports activities. Additionally, maintain a healthy diet to prevent inflammation in muscles and tendons.

If you suspect you have injured your tendon, it is crucial to seek medical advice from your doctor or physical therapist. Your doctor may order imaging tests such as an X-ray, MRI, or ultrasound to determine the extent of the injury.

Depending on the severity, treatment for tendon injuries can range from rest and physical therapy exercises to medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), topical creams, or corticosteroid injections.