What exactly is a tendon? A tendon, a tough yet flexible band of fibrous tissue, connects muscles to bones and transmits the force of muscle contraction to the bones, thus enabling movement.
Tendons vary in size and character. Some tendons are small, like those that cause finger movements, and others are larger, such as the Achilles tendon in the heel. When functioning normally, tendons glide smoothly as the muscle contracts; when the tendon inflames, the action of pulling a muscle becomes irritating and painful. This is when tendonitis occurs, and it literally translates to inflammation of the tendon.
Tendonitis is a painful condition that affects many people, and for a variety of reasons. Let us take a look at some of the common causes of tendonitis:Most commonly, tendonitis occurs after overuse, when people begin a new exercise program or intensify their level of exercise. The tendon is not used to the new demands placed upon it; inflammation and discomfort ensue.
People who move into a new exercise program too quickly, or who try challenging exercise moves too soon, may wind up with tendonitis. Age is another vital factor in the onset of tendonitis. As people age, their tendons are not as elastic; they do not glide as smoothly to achieve optimum movement. This is perhaps due to the changes in blood vessels that fortify the tendons. Therefore, older people are more likely to develop tendonitis, along with a variety of other joint and tendon-related conditions.
An anatomical cause also can bring about the onset of tendonitis. If the tendon does not have a smooth path to glide along, it is more easily irritated and inflamed. The process of surgical treatment may be necessary to realign the tendon in these instances; however, this only occurs in rare cases. Generally surgery is not needed to cope with tendonitis, but only a physician can tell for sure.
Regardless of its cause, tendonitis can be a painful, at the very least irritating condition. A doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications, NSAIDS, cortisone injections, ice treatments, or another means of treatment; but only after a thorough consultation with a medical professional will determine the solution to this all too common ailment.You will never know the right treatment for you unless and until you consult a doctor.
This method will depend on your other, pre-existing health conditions, age, lifestyle, severity of your condition, etc. A qualified physician will help you deal with and successfully overcome your tendonitis condition.
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