Tendon injuries can occur during sports or other activities that involve sudden sharp movements such as jumping or throwing or as a result of repeated overuse of the tendons during running or even computer use.

What are tendons?

Tendons are strong cords of connective tissue that attach the muscle to the bone. Their function is to help move the bones and joints when the muscles contract.

Symptoms of a tendon injury

A tendon injury can affect many different parts of the body, commonly:

• Shoulders
• Elbows
• Wrists
• Knees
• Backs of the heels (Achilles tendons)
• Fingers.

If you’ve sustained an injury to a tendon, you could experience pain and swelling in the affected area that increases as you move. The area will be stiff, especially first thing in the morning. You may find that the affected area is weakened and a joint may be difficult to move. Some tendon injuries cause a grating or crackling sensation as you move, and in severe injuries, the tendon may feel lumpy and hot.

Treatment and rehabilitation on tendon injuries

If you experience severe pain and loss of movement in the affected area, you should see your doctor.

However, minor tendon injuries can usually be treated at home. First of all, it’s important to stop any activity that causes you pain in the affected area. The acronym RICE should then be used to deal with tendon injuries: Rest, Ice, Comfortable support, and Elevation.

Begin by resting the injured area and elevating it if possible. Cool the area by applying an ice pack or cold pad, which will help to reduce any pain, bruising, and swelling. Always place the ice pack over a cotton dressing to that the skin is not burnt.

Provide support to the area by applying an elasticated bandage over some soft padding. The bandage should be fixed tightly enough to support the injury, but not so tight that the circulation is compromised. Bandage as far as the next joint on each side of the injury.

When the injured area feels more comfortable, it’s important to begin gently bearing weight on it and gradually reintroducing light exercise again.

If you’re concerned about a tendon injury or want to know what exercises can be done to help avoid injury, contact Christopher Hole today.