Tendon pain relief aims to reduce the inflammation that causes discomfort and slows healing. Typically, overuse injuries are caused by repetitive activities or sports that stress the muscles and tendons. Usually, this isn’t a problem, but over time, the tendons can become more and more irritated. If left untreated, severe tendinitis can lead to a ruptured tendon. Fortunately, a few easy steps can help alleviate the pain and speed healing.
Often, the best way to treat tendon pain relief is by resting the area. This doesn’t mean you need to stay home and lay around – it just means that you should take a break from the activity or sport that’s causing the pain. A splint or bandage can help restrict movement, and icing the area can reduce swelling and inflammation.
Over-the-counter nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen can help with inflammation and pain. However, NSAIDs should not be used for long periods because they may slow healing.
Heat can also relieve pain and increase blood flow to the area. For example, a warm bath, hot compresses or taking a whirlpool can all be helpful. In fact, alternating cold and heat is an excellent treatment for tendinitis.
Physical therapy is also useful for reducing tendon pain and increasing flexibility and strength. A therapist can propose an exercise plan that gently strengthens nearby muscle groups and maintains overall muscle tone, as well as the affected tendon. Initially, the therapist may only manipulate and massage the affected tendon and then gradually work up to stretching and strengthening exercises. In addition, ultrasound and whirlpool treatments can help relax muscles and tendons, improve circulation, and accelerate healing.
A steroid shot around the tendon might ease inflammation, but these aren’t usually recommended for chronic tendinitis lasting more than three months because repeated injections can weaken a tendon and make it more likely to rupture. Another option is platelet-rich plasma. This is an exciting new treatment that uses your own blood to inject into the chronically inflamed area.
Changing your diet can also help to prevent tendon pain. Eating a variety of foods rich in vitamins and minerals will keep your muscles, joints and tendons healthy. For example, a diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (fish, flaxseeds and nuts) can decrease inflammation.
In rare cases, if home treatment isn’t effective or your symptoms are severe, it may be necessary to see a doctor. A doctor can diagnose tendinitis by examining the area and using imaging techniques such as x-rays, ultrasound or an MRI.
In some cases, a doctor can recommend surgery for chronic or acute tendon pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments. In most cases, though, a doctor will discuss home treatment options first. In severe or persistent cases, a doctor will consider surgical intervention to avoid ongoing unresponsive tendon pain and a rupturing tendon. Most of the time, however, this will be a last resort, particularly in patients with a chronic and debilitating condition such as calcific tendinopathy.