Definition - What does tendinitis mean?
Tendinitis is the inflammation, or swelling, of a tendon. This medical condition is often caused by overuse or injury to the tendon such as can happen with repetitive work tasks, but may also develop as a result of the natural aging process. Other diseases such as arthritis or diabetes can also cause tendinits to develop. Tendinitis is also spelled tendonitis.
SureHire explains tendinitis
The tendon is a connective tissue, joining the muscles of the body to the bones. Tendons move with the muscles and joints. Tendons in the body may become irritated or inflamed as a result of repetitive motion stress or trauma. Awkward posture or gait such as from poor ergonomic conditions in the workplace may also cause this condition. The resulting tendinitis will cause the sufferer to experience pain and tenderness near the affected area. This pain may sometimes be exacerbated by movement. Tendinitis most often affects the tendons in the hand, wrist, arm, shoulder, knee, or heel.
Depending on the affected body part, tendinitis may be called by many names including "tennis elbow," "golfer's elbow," "pitcher's shoulder," "swimmer's shoulder," or "jumper's knee." Treatment of tendinitis requires that the affected muscle group be allowed to recover through rest. In some instances, anti-inflammatory or other medication may be administered. Physical therapy to strengthen the muscle and tendon may also be recommended. In extreme cases, surgery may be required to correct the injury.
