It occurs when there is the disintegration of the collagen proteins of a tendon. Tendons are thread-like collagen proteins packaged together to form fibrils. They have a primary function of transmitting forces from muscle to bone to enable movement. Tendonitis, therefore, occurs when there is an overload of tendons, which usually occurs during sudden stress or gradually. Tendonitis is also contributed by old age and infections such as diabetes and obesity.

Previously, specialists didn’t know the real cause of tendonitis. It is now known that if tendons swell with water, they undergo a slow disintegration of collagen proteins. The new understanding has led to the establishment of effective tendonitis treatments discussed below.

Tendonitis Radiology

This procedure is not essential, but complex tendonitis cases require scans such as MRI and ultrasound. Scans are critical when this condition is unresponsive to simple treatment options. Although, the scan can be significant because a normal tendonitis scan may indicate that the pain emanating from the joint is unrelated to tendons.

An ultrasound scan showcases the changes in collagen breakdown, increased blood flow, and tendon swelling. This scan is cheap and saves time because a doctor can scan you during your first consultation session. Some tendons, such as the hip and hamstring, are complex. An MRI scan is appropriate for them.

The MRI scan can see other structures surrounding the tendon, muscles, and joints. MRI can also determine the condition of the sacroiliac joints and the hip.

Treating Tendonitis

• If you think you have a tendonitis condition, you must visit a healthcare provider. The health specialists may recommend using the classic RICE treatment for pain dismissal. Rest the affected joint and apply the ice packs. Squeeze the area with a stretchy bandage to ease inflammation and soreness. Maintain the joint at elevation.

• Your physician may also recommend taking OTC pain killers such as naproxen, ibuprofen, and aspirin (only for adults). Painkillers can help sore soft tissues. Your physician should direct you on how to use the pain relievers, especially when it’s your first time experiencing tendonitis.

• An injection can be used to accelerate the healing of tendons. However, a recent study has provided that there is no clear favorite. PRP injections are now famous for some tendons. Other choices are sclerosants and needle tenotomy.

• Healthcare providers can also recommend exercise to strengthen the muscles near the affected joint. It is advisable to start with lengthy warm-ups to avoid disturbance of the tissues. Try lifting weights and jogging. Maintain a slower pace in the beginning; then, as your strength improves, you may increase the range of exercise. Try stretching; it is also part of the treatment.

Other Treatments for Tendonitis

 Surgery is normally used in cases that fail to respond to all other treatments. Although, surgery has risks, such as a wound. Tendon scraping is also an alternative to surgery. It is a less intrusive option and has previously provided good results for some tendons.

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