What Is Tendonitis?
Tendonitis is a condition involving inflammation or irritation of a tendon, the thick connective tissue that attaches muscle to bone. Tendonitis commonly develops from repetitive movement, overuse, or strain affecting the tendons throughout the body.
Tendonitis can occur in many areas, including the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle. Athletes, active individuals, and people with repetitive work activities are especially susceptible to tendon overuse injuries. Without treatment, symptoms may worsen and interfere with sports, work, and everyday activities.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained sports medicine specialists provide advanced diagnosis and treatment options designed to reduce pain, promote healing, and restore function safely.
Symptoms of Tendonitis
- Pain near a joint or tendon
- Tenderness with movement or touch
- Swelling or inflammation
- Stiffness or reduced mobility
- Pain that worsens with activity
- Weakness in the affected area
- Discomfort during repetitive motion
Causes & Risk Factors
Tendonitis commonly develops from repetitive stress and overuse affecting the tendons.
- Repetitive sports or exercise activities
- Overtraining without adequate recovery
- Repetitive work-related motion
- Poor posture or body mechanics
- Sudden increases in activity intensity
- Muscle weakness or imbalance
- Aging-related tendon degeneration
Diagnosis
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, diagnosis begins with a detailed evaluation of the affected tendon and surrounding structures.
- Physical examination of the affected area
- Assessment of pain, strength, and mobility
- Review of activity level and symptom history
- Evaluation of movement mechanics
- X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI imaging when needed
Accurate diagnosis helps identify the underlying cause of tendon irritation and guides the most effective treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Tendonitis
Non-Surgical Treatment
Most cases of tendonitis improve with conservative treatment and proper rehabilitation. Non-surgical treatment options may include:
- Rest and activity modification
- Ice therapy and anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy and strengthening exercises
- Stretching and flexibility programs
- Bracing or supportive devices
- Corticosteroid injections in select cases
- Gradual return-to-activity programs
Surgical Treatment
Surgery is less commonly required but may be recommended for severe tendon damage, chronic tendonitis, or tendon tears that do not improve with conservative treatment. Surgical treatment may involve repairing damaged tendon tissue and restoring function.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery timelines vary depending on the location and severity of tendon irritation.
- Many patients improve within several weeks with conservative care
- Physical therapy is important for restoring strength and flexibility
- Gradual return to activity helps reduce reinjury risk
- Addressing movement mechanics can help prevent recurrence
Early treatment and proper rehabilitation can help prevent chronic tendon pain and long-term tissue damage.
Why Choose Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists?
Local Care, Close to Home
We proudly serve patients throughout Delaware and nearby communities, including Wilmington, Newark, Middletown, Stanton, North Wilmington, and Chadds Ford. Our sports medicine specialists provide expert orthopedic care close to home.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained physicians provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for tendon injuries and sports-related conditions.
- Experienced sports medicine and orthopedic specialists
- Advanced imaging and tendon evaluation
- Comprehensive non-surgical and surgical treatment options
- Personalized rehabilitation and recovery plans
- Convenient locations throughout Delaware and nearby Pennsylvania
Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an appointment with Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists today to receive expert diagnosis and treatment for tendonitis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes tendonitis?
Tendonitis commonly develops from repetitive motion, overuse, sports activity, poor mechanics, or tendon strain.
Can tendonitis heal on its own?
Mild cases may improve with rest and activity modification, though persistent symptoms often benefit from professional treatment.
How long does tendonitis take to heal?
Recovery timelines vary, but many patients improve within several weeks to months depending on severity and treatment consistency.
Is physical therapy helpful for tendonitis?
Yes. Physical therapy often helps improve strength, flexibility, and movement mechanics while reducing reinjury risk.
When should I see a specialist?
If tendon pain, swelling, or weakness interferes with work, sports, exercise, or daily activities, it is important to seek orthopedic evaluation.