Recognizing the Signs of Tendonitis

Tendonitis can sneak up on you, and unfortunately, it can turn everyday movements into painful moments. Whether you’re an athlete, have a physically demanding job, or simply overuse a joint, recognizing the signs early can help you prevent more severe damage and get the treatment you need.

If you suspect you have tendonitis (or another injury), don’t hesitate to visit Sequoia Institute for Surgical Services. Our two board-certified surgeons, Dr. Jonathan Liu and  Dr. Huey Yuan Tien, can assess your injury and provide the treatment you need.

In the meantime, keep reading to learn more about tendonitis and the signs that you might have it. 

What is tendonitis?

Tendonitis is a condition that occurs when one of your tendons — tendons are thick, fibrous cords that attach muscles to bones — becomes inflamed. When your tendons are inflamed, they can cause pain and swelling. 

Tendonitis can develop in any tendon, but it’s most common in areas such as:

• The base of your thumb — you might even hear this called “texting thumb”
• Shoulders (rotator cuff tendonitis)
• Elbows (tennis or golfer’s elbow)
• Wrists
• Knees (jumper’s knee)
• Ankles (Achilles tendonitis)

If the inflammation and swelling persist too long, they can lead to tendinosis and tendon ruptures (tears).

5 signs of tendonitis

The only way to know you have tendonitis is through a thorough exam, a review of your symptoms, and diagnostic imaging. Diagnostic imaging is necessary because it can also help confirm or rule out other issues, such as arthritis or fractures.

You might suspect you have tendonitis if you have:

1. Pain and tenderness

You’ll likely feel pain in the affected area, especially when you move the joint or touch the tendon. If you develop chronic tendonitis or tendinosis, you may start to feel pain even if you’re not moving the affected area.

2. Swelling

Tendonitis often causes noticeable swelling around your injured tendon. Keep in mind, though, that many different injuries can cause swelling, including fractures. 

Cold packs can help reduce swelling.

3. Stiffness

You might notice stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity or first thing in the morning. While cold therapy is good for swelling, warm compresses can help alleviate stiffness.

Stiffness can also be a sign of arthritis. 

4. Weakness

Your affected joint may feel weaker or less stable. Not surprisingly, this can make it harder to perform tasks that require strength, and if you’re an athlete, this can affect your performance. 

5. Crackling sensation 

Moving your joint near the affected tendon can sometimes produce a crackling or grating sensation called crepitus. 

What to do if you spot the signs of tendonitis

If you think you’re dealing with tendonitis, you’re not alone. It accounts for up to 30% of sports injuries. But just because it’s common doesn’t mean you should push through the pain. 

Speak up! Untreated tendonitis can worsen — especially if your injury is from overuse and you keep straining that tendon. Our team can confirm that you’re dealing with tendonitis and then recommend the right course of action based on the severity of your injury.

In mild cases, you may need to practice the RICE protocol: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. 

However, that’s not always enough to get you the relief you need. Other treatments for tendonitis include:

• Injections
• Bracing or splinting
• Physical therapy
• Surgery to repair damaged tendons

Our team prioritizes minimally invasive surgical techniques (when possible) to repair tendon damage from tendonitis. 

If you have concerns about tendonitis, use our online scheduling tool or call us in Visalia, Reedley, or Porterville, California, to book an appointment.