Tendinitis

Tendinitis is inflammation or irritation of a tendon, Tendons transmit the forces of muscle to the skeleton. As such, they are subjected to repeated mechanical loads, which are felt to be a major causative factor in the development of tendinopathy. Pathologic findings include tendon inflammation, mucoid degeneration, and fibrinoid necrosis in tendons. Microtearing and proliferation of fibroblasts have also been reported. However, the exact pathogenesis of tendinopathy is unclear.

During the 10-year study period there was an incidence rate of 33.2 injuries per 100,000 person-years. There was a decreasing rate of injury during the study period. Highest incidence of injury occurred at 20-29 years of age. There was significant association between injury rate and age, and males had a higher incidence than females. The majority of cases involved a single tendon, with extensor tendon injuries occurring more frequently than flexor tendons. 

Tendinitis may go away over time. If not, the doctor will recommend treatments to reduce pain and inflammation and preserve mobility to prevent disability and recurrence. He may provide a referral to a rheumatologist, an orthopaedic surgeon or a physical therapist for specialized treatment. When properly treated, most tendinitis conditions don’t result in permanent joint damage or disability.