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Tendinitis - Arm and Wrist Treatment Solutions

Tendons are thick cords of tissue that connect muscles to bones, facilitating movement and providing stability to joints. When these tendons become inflamed or irritated due to repetitive motion, overuse, injury, or aging, it leads to tendinitis. Common types of arm and wrist tendinitis include:

Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis): Involves the inflammation of the tendons on the inside of the elbow. It typically occurs due to repetitive wrist and forearm movements, leading to pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow.

Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): Involves the inflammation of tendons on the outside of the elbow. It often results from repetitive gripping, lifting, or twisting motions, causing pain and tenderness on the outer side of the elbow.

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis: Affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, leading to pain and swelling in the wrist and lower thumb. It is often associated with repetitive thumb and wrist movements.

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Tennis Elbow Diagram


Tendinitis Symptoms (Arms and Wrists)

What is Tendinitis?

Tendinitis, or tendonitis, is when a tendon becomes inflamed or irritated. A tendon is a thick cord that connects muscle to bone. This condition commonly occurs due to overuse or repetitive motion, leading to pain and tenderness near the affected joint. 

Tendinitis frequently affects areas such as the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and heels. Common types include tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, and Achilles tendinitis. Treatment usually includes rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medicines.

Physical therapy and exercises to strengthen and stretch the tendon are often suggested.


What are the Symptoms of Arm, Shoulder and Wrist Tendinitis?

Symptoms of arm and wrist tendinitis typically include pain, tenderness, swelling, and sometimes a reduced range of motion. The discomfort may worsen with specific movements or activities involving the affected tendons.

Overuse, poor ergonomics, inadequate warm-up before physical activities, or sudden increases in activity levels can contribute to the development of tendinitis.

Treatment for tendinitis usually includes resting the affected area. It is important to avoid activities that make the symptoms worse. Applying ice packs can help reduce inflammation.

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can also relieve pain and swelling. Physical therapy exercises can help strengthen and stretch the affected tendons and muscles.

These exercises may promote healing and prevent future problems. In some cases, a brace or splint may be used to immobilise the affected area to allow for healing.

It’s essential to seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen despite self-care measures. A healthcare professional can give a correct diagnosis. They can suggest suitable treatment options and offer advice on preventing future tendinitis in the arm and wrist.


I have elbow tendinitis (Tennis Elbow). How can I self-treat?

Self-treating elbow tendinitis, or tennis elbow, involves several steps to reduce pain and inflammation and promote healing.

Rest and Activity Modification

  • Rest the elbow: Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, such as gripping or lifting heavy objects.
  • Modify activities: Use ergonomic tools and techniques to reduce strain on the elbow.

Ice Therapy

  • Apply ice: Use an ice pack on the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce inflammation and pain.

Compression and Elevation

  • Use a brace or strap: A counterforce brace can help reduce strain on the tendon.
  • Elevate the elbow: When possible, keep the elbow elevated to reduce swelling.

Medication

  • Over-the-counter pain relief: NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin can help reduce pain and inflammation.

Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

  • Gentle stretches: Perform wrist extensor stretches to help lengthen the tendon.
  • Strengthening exercises: Once pain decreases, gradual strengthening exercises for the forearm muscles can help prevent recurrence.

Physical Therapy

  • Consult a physical therapist: They can provide tailored exercises and treatments to promote healing.

Avoidance of Repetitive Strain

  • Avoid repetitive movements: Minimise activities that involve repetitive wrist and elbow movements.

Gradual Return to Activity

  • Slowly resume activities: Gradually reintroduce activities as pain allows, being cautious to avoid overloading the tendon too soon.

Seek Medical Advice

  • If the pain continues or gets worse, see a healthcare professional.
  • It is important to get medical advice.
  • This will help with further evaluation and treatment options.
  •  

By following these steps, you can effectively manage and treat elbow tendinitis at home.

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