Tendinitis is a painful form of inflammation that occurs following a tendon injury. Hard, fibrous tendons connect the muscles to bones. When they contract, they pull on the muscle and cause it to contract. They also keep the joint stable, which means that injuries can have serious consequences. Due to potential health consequences, which include tendon ruptures, understanding the symptoms of tendinitis is vital for preventing unnecessary complications and encouraging individuals to seek appropriate medical care.

Pain

Pain is the most common symptom of tendinitis. Many people experience a persistent dull, aching sensation near the stressed tendon, especially if the condition is left untreated. The pain is more pronounced with use of the tendon. Sharp, shooting pains are more common when the affected tendon has been aggravated by daily activities and ordinary movements. Medical professionals typically recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for mild to moderate inflammation and corticosteroid injections into the insertion point of the tendon for more severe symptoms.

Stiffness

Tendinitis frequently causes pain and stiffness. Prolonged inflammation can make the affected limb feel lazy, heavy, numb, or difficult to move. Stiffness is most common in the morning or after several hours of sleep or sedentary activity. Stretching or motion usually restores movement. However, persistent stiffness could be a sign of severe inflammation. Individuals should consult a physician if symptoms do not resolve.

Swelling

Tendinitis may also cause mild swelling. Since tendons are connective tissues, the inflammation can be concealed deep under layers of skin and muscle. To reduce pain and swelling, experts typically recommend icing the affected area for 20 minutes several times a day. In some cases, hot compresses are helpful. If symptoms worsen from hot or cold treatment, stop the therapy immediately and consult a physician.

Tenderness

Inflammation can make the area surrounding the tendon sore and painful to the touch, and pressure from clothes or bedding may exacerbate this symptom. To reduce tenderness, wear loose-fitting apparel and elevate the affected area while resting. Over-the-counter pain relievers can reduce tenderness. However, in most cases, this is one of the milder symptoms of tendinitis.

Redness and Warmth

Another sign of inflammation is redness and warmth. In some cases, it may feel like the affected tendon is radiating heat. The tissue may also pop or squeak when moved or massaged. These symptoms typically appear when the injured area is aggravated or stressed. If inflammation persists, consult a physician for further treatment.

Itching

Itching is one of the most unexpected symptoms of tendinitis and is due to underlying inflammation in the tendon. In people with gout, uric acid crystals can accumulate in the joints and extremities, which can cause tendon pain, irritation, and inflammation. Additionally, persistent friction and pressure may aggravate this condition.

Weakness

Injured muscles and tendons cause pain and weakness. These are signs that the body needs rest and rehabilitation. To prevent further injury, avoid using the affected limb and limit activities that increase pain, especially lifting or repetitive movements. Finally, check with a doctor before resuming sports activities.

Decreased Mobility

Inflammation from tendinitis frequently results in localized mobility issues. For example, an individual with patellar tendinitis, which affects the knee, may face problems going up or down stairs. Achilles tendinitis can lead to difficulty walking, running, or jumping, and rotator cuff tendinitis, which affects the shoulder, can make it difficult to change clothes or lift the arms overhead. Sports players and individuals with tennis elbow may have difficulty opening doorknobs and jars or shaking hands since tendons are vital for these movements.