Tendonitis

Definition

Tendonitis is an inflammation or irritation of a tendon, which is the thick fibrous cord that attaches muscle to bone. This condition commonly occurs in the upper extremity, particularly affecting tendons around the shoulder, elbow, and wrist, and can be caused by repetitive movements, overuse, or trauma. Understanding tendonitis is essential because it can significantly impact biomechanics and overall function in sports and daily activities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tendonitis often presents with pain, tenderness, and swelling around the affected area, making it difficult to perform normal movements.
2. Common sites for tendonitis in the upper extremity include the rotator cuff in the shoulder, the biceps tendon near the elbow, and the wrist flexor tendons.
3. Risk factors for developing tendonitis include age, sports participation, repetitive overhead motions, and inadequate warm-up or conditioning.
4. Treatment typically involves rest, ice application, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and sometimes corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation.
5. Preventive measures include proper technique during physical activities, gradual increase in intensity, and regular stretching and strengthening exercises.

Review Questions

• How does tendonitis affect the biomechanics of the upper extremity during physical activity?
  • Tendonitis can lead to altered biomechanics in the upper extremity by causing pain and limiting range of motion. This pain may change how a person uses their arm or hand, leading to compensatory movements that can place additional stress on other muscles and joints. Over time, these changes can result in further injury or dysfunction if not addressed through proper rehabilitation and modification of activities.
• Discuss the role of repetitive motions in the development of tendonitis in athletes involved in overhead sports.
  • Repetitive motions are a significant contributor to tendonitis, particularly in athletes participating in sports that require overhead movements like swimming, tennis, or baseball. These activities often place continuous stress on specific tendons in the upper extremity, leading to microtrauma over time. If athletes do not allow adequate recovery or fail to implement proper technique, they increase their risk of developing tendonitis due to cumulative wear on their tendons.
• Evaluate the impact of age-related changes on the risk of developing tendonitis in older adults participating in physical activities.
  • As individuals age, tendons become less flexible and lose some of their natural resilience due to decreased collagen production and blood flow. These age-related changes can increase the susceptibility to injuries like tendonitis during physical activities. Older adults may engage in sports or exercises without recognizing their body's limitations, leading to overuse injuries. Understanding these factors helps guide tailored prevention strategies and treatment plans that accommodate their needs while promoting continued activity.

Related terms

Tendon: A tendon is a tough band of fibrous connective tissue that connects muscles to bones, allowing for movement and stability.

Tendinopathy: Tendinopathy refers to any disease or injury of a tendon, which can encompass both tendonitis (inflammation) and tendinosis (degeneration).

Biomechanics: Biomechanics is the study of the mechanical laws relating to the movement or structure of living organisms, particularly how forces affect motion and stability.