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Tendinitis—sometimes spelled tendonitis—is one of the most common overuse injuries affecting active individuals and athletes alike. This painful condition occurs when a tendon, the thick fibrous cord that connects muscle to bone, becomes irritated or inflamed. Whether you’re a runner, golfer, tennis player, or simply someone with a repetitive daily routine, understanding tendinitis is key to staying active and pain-free.

What Causes Tendinitis?

Tendinitis is most often caused by repetitive motion or overuse over time. When a tendon is stressed without adequate rest, tiny microtears can develop, leading to inflammation and pain.

Common causes include:

• Repetitive activities like running, jumping, or lifting
• Poor technique during sports or exercise
• Sudden increases in activity level or intensity
• Aging, which naturally reduces tendon flexibility
• Improper posture or ergonomics in daily tasks

Some of the most frequently affected areas include the shoulder (rotator cuff), elbow (tennis or golfer’s elbow), wrist, knee (jumper’s knee), and heel (Achilles tendinitis).

Signs and Symptoms

Tendinitis symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen with continued activity. Common signs include:

• Dull aching pain near a joint
• Tenderness or stiffness, especially in the morning
• Mild swelling
• Pain that worsens with movement

Ignoring early symptoms can lead to more severe injury, including tendon degeneration or even rupture.

How to Prevent Tendinitis

The good news is that tendinitis is often preventable with a few smart habits:

1. Warm up and stretch
Preparing your muscles and tendons before activity improves flexibility and reduces strain.

2. Use proper technique
Whether in sports or daily movements, correct form minimizes unnecessary stress on tendons.

3. Gradually increase activity
Avoid sudden spikes in intensity, duration, or frequency of exercise.

4. Strength training
Building muscle strength helps support joints and reduces the load placed on tendons.

5. Rest and recovery
Incorporate rest days into your routine and listen to your body when it signals fatigue or discomfort.

Treatment Options

If tendinitis does occur, early treatment is essential for a full recovery. Most cases can be managed with conservative (non-surgical) care:

Rest and activity modification
Reducing or temporarily stopping the activity that caused the injury allows the tendon to heal.

Ice and anti-inflammatory measures
Applying ice and using over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce pain and swelling.

Physical therapy
A guided rehabilitation program focuses on stretching, strengthening, and improving movement patterns to prevent recurrence.

Bracing or support
In some cases, a brace or strap may help offload the affected tendon.

Advanced treatments
For persistent cases, options such as corticosteroid injections or regenerative therapies may be considered. Surgery is rarely needed but may be recommended for severe or chronic conditions.

When to See a Specialist for Tendinitis

If your pain lasts more than a few days, worsens over time, or interferes with daily activities, it’s time to seek professional care. Early evaluation can prevent long-term damage and get you back to doing what you love faster.

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At Ozark Orthopaedics, our goal is to help patients stay active, recover quickly, and prevent future injuries. If you’re experiencing symptoms of tendinitis, a personalized treatment plan can make all the difference in your recovery and long-term joint health. Contact us to schedule a visit.