Health

What is tendinitis? »Its definition and meaning

Anonim

Tendonitis is a condition characterized by the swelling of a tendon (connective tissue that sticks muscle to bone) as a result of an overload on the muscle or injury. Tendinitis can appear in any tendon, although it generally originates in the heels, wrists, shoulders, elbows, among others.

It is characterized by the manifestation of a lot of pain in the area of ​​the tendon that is close to the joint; pain that usually increases if you make any movement.

Among the causes that can cause tendinitis are: intense and consistent practice of some type of exercise. Age, since elasticity is lost over time. Suffering from diseases such as arthritis or diabetes.

Types of tendonitis:

Shoulder tendinitis: it is the most common in adult patients over 40 years of age, it is caused by the wear and tear of the tissues. Due to its degenerative nature, it causes a weakening of the tendon, increasing the chances of injury.

Elbow tendonitis: it is caused by inflammation of the elbow tendons, it is caused by excessive practice of some activity, or by some trauma to the area.

Hand and wrist tendonitis: this type of tendonitis is caused by overworking the hands, for example when taking an object, squeezing clothes, typing, etc. Depending on the work that is done, it can affect the tendons of the wrist or the fingers of the hand.

Heel tendonitis: it usually occurs in the so-called Achilles heel (the name given to the tendon that connects the muscles located in the calf with the heel). In young people it can frequently manifest itself in those who practice basketball, or athletes, runners, etc. Likewise, this type of tendinitis is common in elderly people who suffer from arthritis.

Treatment for cases of tendinitis consists of immobilizing the affected area, resting, taking anti - inflammatories, applying hot or cold compresses, sometimes it is necessary to perform physiotherapies, which allow the toning of the muscle and tendon. Surgical intervention is rarely used to remove the inflamed tissue.

In order to prevent tendonitis from arising, it is recommended that before performing any exercise or sports activity, you begin with a prior warm-up. Try to avoid repetitive and excessive movements of the arms and legs.