Tendons are found throughout the entire human body. They are strong yet flexible fibrous bands that attach muscles to bones. When any muscle in the body contracts to move a bone, a tendon is responsible for transmitting to the bone the force of that contraction. Tendonitis is the inflammation and irritation of these tendons causing the normal smooth gliding motion of a tendon to be impaired.

Common types of tendonitis include runner’s knee, tennis elbow, achilles tendonitis, rotator cuff tendonitis, supraspinatus tendonitis, Golfer’s elbow, and pitcher’s shoulder. Tendonitis can affect any joint, but regardless of type, symptoms of tendonitis are standard. The most common joints to develop tendonitis are the ankle, bicep, elbow, heel (achilles tendon), hip, leg, knee, shoulder, thumb, and wrist.

Since tendonitis symptoms can mimic other serious conditions, the first step in a care plan is to confirm the diagnosis. Dr. Goel may use X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to make a positive diagnosis of tendonitis.

Although x-rays are not able to show tendons, they can at least reveal the degree of swelling around the tendon. They are also helpful in ruling out fractures as the cause of the joint pain. MRI studies, on the other hand, can reveal tendonitis, but they are generally not needed unless the doctor suspects another problem is involved.

Once a diagnosis is achieved it will be used to develop an individualized treatment plan that is tailored to the unique needs of the patient. The core of this treatment is a specific plan that addresses the cause of the problem, not just the symptoms.

If there is extensive inflammation, Dr. Goel may use techniques to reduce the inflammation, such as splinting, rest, ice, and other therapies. This helps loosen the tendon and decrease inflammation so that healing can progress.

Dr. Goel will also look at the lifestyle factors that have led to the injury and help you make modifications as necessary to prevent future instances.