Shoulder & Elbow Tendonitis

What is tendonitis and how is it treated?

What is Tendonitis?

Tendons are the strong, cord-like structures that connect muscles to bones and provide strength and flexibility. Tendonitis is a condition characterized by the inflammation and swelling of tendons.

Tendonitis is usually caused by overuse of the tendons and over time small traumas and tears to the tendon decrease the strength and stability of these tendons.

Tendonitis that affects the shoulder, elbow, knee or ankle can cause any of the following symptoms:

  • Pain
  • Decreased range of motion
  • Tenderness
  • Swelling

If you are experiencing the symptoms of tendonitis you should make an appointment with one of the Fellowship Trained and Board Certified Sports Medicine Specialists at Olympia Orthopaedic Associates. Once your condition is thoroughly evaluated and accurately diagnosed, an effective treatment plan will be prescribed.  Our goal is to get you back to an active and healthy lifestyle!

How is it treated?

Tendonitis can be effectively treated using nonsurgical treatment options that decrease inflammation and pain. Customized treatment plans prescribed by the Sports Medicine Specialists at Olympia Orthopaedic usually include a combination of the following:

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Bracing
  • Physical therapy
  • Injections

The proper use of treatment options ensures a quick recovery. Surgery is rarely performed to treat tendonitis.