Tendinitis
Tendinitis is one of the many conditions we fix at New Life Chiropractic. Notice how I use the word fix and not treat. At New Life we strive to correct the mechanical problem that is the underlying cause of tendinitis. Lets start with a brief definition of exactly what tendinitis is. I will then explain the different types of tendinitis, as well as how we diagnose and treat (fix) tendonitis.
Tendinitis defined
Lets break it down. The tendon is the flexible but inelastic cord of strong fibrous collagen tissue attaching a muscle to a bone. Itis is the suffix which means inflammation. So we basically have an inflamed tendon. When we talk about tendonitis we usually refer to it by the area of the body where the pain is. If the pain is in the patellar tendon we would call it “patellar tendonitis” this is more commonly called “jumpers knee” seen often in basketball players. Tendonitis is also seen in the thumb, elbow, shoulder, hip, knee and Achilles tendon of the ankle. Tennis and golfers elbow are also very common forms of tendinitis. If you have noticed I have been spelling tendinitis (tendonitis) two ways both are correct.
Diagnosis of tendinitis
Tendinitis is primarily diagnosed by its symptoms and onset. Symptoms of tendinitis range from a stiff dull aching joint, to a burning swollen joint that you can barely move without pain. Occasionally there is heat and redness and even obvious knots and trigger points in the effected joint. We find that repetitive activity makes the condition much worse and that rest or disuse leads to stiffness and pain with movement. The condition is a form of overusing a non functioning joint. If you continue to run with a foot or ankle dysfunction you will likely end up with tendonitis. Let me explain: If your calcaneous (heel) bone is jammed posterior it causes a lot of tension on the Achilles. This can cause tendonitis.
Tendinitis treatments
The most basic remedy for tendinitis is to stop or reduce the activity that causes the pain and apply ice to reduce the inflammation. Compression or wrapping the joint as well as elevating can also reduce symptoms. The chiropractic “fix” is to find the fixation or restriction in the joint and mobilize (adjust) it to return the joint to normal function. At New Life we also use ultrasound to help speed along the healing process. Medical folks generally prescribe NSAIDs and steroid injections (not fun) and not long term. Contact New Life
