Tendonitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Sharp pain in a joint doesn't always call for a prescription — often, conservative chiropractic care can resolve it just as well.
What Is Tendonitis?
Tendonitis develops when a tendon becomes inflamed, usually from overuse. It affects athletes and office workers alike — anyone doing intensive training or repetitive tasks like typing. The heels, knees, elbows, wrists, and shoulders are the most commonly affected areas, and we manage nearly all of it conservatively rather than reaching for invasive treatment first.
Symptoms
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Difficulty or pain with movement
- Swelling around the joint
- Warmth or redness in the area
When Should You See Us?
Earlier intervention means a better, faster recovery. Waiting too long risks losing real mobility, and in some cases, ending up needing surgery that could have been avoided.
Treatment Options
Conservative, non-invasive care comes first: supervised exercise, home therapy, ice or heat, and techniques like IASTM paired with eccentric loading. Anti-inflammatory medication can help but may interfere with healing if overused. Corticosteroid injections are reserved for more severe cases, and surgery is always the last resort, used only when everything else hasn't worked.