Tendonitis

What is tendonitis?

Tendons are cords of strong, flexible tissue that connect your muscles to your bones. They help prevent muscle injury by absorbing some of the impact your muscles take when you run, jump, or do other movements. Tendonitis occurs when a tendon becomes inflamed or irritated. Common areas it affects are the neck, elbows, biceps, wrists, knees, or achilles. Inflammation of a tendon is normally caused by overuse. Overuse causes the tendon to repeatedly strain until tiny tears start to form. 

Symptoms

• Tenderness
• Pain
• Swelling around the affected area
• Stiffness or restricted movement 
• Muscle weakness
• Warmth of the skin around the affected area

Treatment

Treatment for tendonitis usually includes rest, icing, discontinuation of heavy lifting or any movement that caused the tenderness in the first place. You can also use anti-inflammatory medicines. 

Massage targets and work the injured tendon fibres and surrounding muscle tissue, loosening the muscles and boosting the blood circulation and healthy collagen in and around the affected area. Massage can help to stretch and stimulate the muscles to improve pain and mobility. It can also help to repair scar tissue and reduce swelling.