Tendons attach muscles to bones. Tendonitis is an overuse injury that develops slowly in the tendons. Tiny tears occur on a tendon when it is constantly overworked. The tendon becomes irritated resulting in swelling, heat, redness, and pain.
Causes of tendonitis vary. The most common cause is increasing the duration or intensity of an activity or exercise program too quickly. Tendonitis in the knee, foot, and calf are common in athletes who participate in sports that involve running and jumping. Tendonitis in the knees can also occur from biking. Swimming, swinging a golf club, or pitching a ball can cause tendonitis in the shoulder. Wearing worn-out shoes, poor conditioning, or training mistakes are other possible causes.
Body structure problems like having bowlegs, one leg shorter than the other, or flat feet can also cause tendonitis. Tendonitis may also occur from repeated motion such as typing or using a hammer.
Often people try to endure the pain. They hope that it will simply go away. Unfortunately, more serious symptoms may begin if these early symptoms are ignored. The occasional pain will change to constant aching, pain, and stiffness before, during, and after exercise. The tendon will also become tender to touch.
If you are having pain:
You can continue activities that do not stress or cause pain to the injured area. Make sure to stretch before doing any activities. Also, you may need to cross train. That is, instead of doing only one sport, try swimming, rowing, jogging, or biking to prevent overuse injuries.
Take anti-inflammatory medicines as approved by your health care provider. See your provider if the problem does not clear up in a couple of weeks. Irritated tendons can rupture if left untreated. When this happens more serious treatment such as a wearing a cast or surgery is needed.