Irrespective of being young or old, a weekend warrior or a pro athlete, individuals tend to have a natural desire to push themselves beyond what they are capable of. While aiming for optimal athletic performance is a commendable trait, it could occasionally lead to injury. Tendonitis is one of the most prevalent sports-related injuries, often occurring because of overuse. Whereas it could strike at any age, it is more common as you age because your tendons become less flexible. Unfortunately, the signs of Mill Creek tendonitis are not always obvious.
So, how could you distinguish tendonitis from simply wrong sleeping posture or a tweaked muscle? In this post, podiatric specialist Dr. Nathan Hansen and his expert staff provide insights into some telltale signs of tendonitis. Read on to learn more.
Tendons are fibrous connective tissue bands that connect bones to muscles. Ideally, you may think of tendons as the rubber bands of your body, since they are made of collagen. With more than 650 muscles in your body, it is true to state that there are hundreds, if not thousands of tendons and possible areas for tendonitis to develop. Here are some things you should watch out for:
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Dull Pain Or Ache At Or Near A Joint
More often than not, tendonitis is frequently the outcome of continuous use rather than sudden or acute trauma. A dull aching around the joint, particularly during motion is one of your earliest warning indications.
Achilles tendonitis, the most renowned type of tendonitis, is a trauma to the strongest and largest tendon within the human body, which links your heel bone to the calf. Weekend warriors and runners are particularly susceptible to this injury.
The Achilles tendon is particularly vulnerable due to inadequate blood supply and tremendous stress throughout one’s movement. Actually, as per the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, one’s Achilles tendon can withstand a force of up to 1000 pounds. Consider this the next time you are out doing your morning or evening runs.
Inflammation or Swelling
Inflammation is another typical symptom of tendonitis. Whether you have a swimmer’s or pitcher’s shoulder, jumper’s knee, or golfer’s elbow, you may notice inflammation in and around the damaged joint. What’s more, if you experience some warmth in that specific region, and your symptoms do not go away in the next few days or weeks, schedule a consultation right away to prevent a more serious injury or a possible tendon rupture.
Motion Difficulties
If you realize that you cannot bear your weight or have reduced range of motion in your damaged limb, you might have tendonitis; hence, the need for immediate medical attention. Once you suffer tendonitis, it is critical to reduce your workout and allow your injured tendon to heal. Based on the seriousness of your injury, this recovery period could take many weeks; thus, do not get caught up in the waiting game.
There is nothing as unpleasant as being in agony and sidelined because of tendonitis. Luckily for you, at Hansen Foot & Ankle, you can access top-notch care for your condition. Dr. Nathan Hansen employs his versatile skill set in podiatry to ensure you return to the game or resume your routine activities right away. Your care plan may include more conservative options like rest, heat and ice therapy, physical therapy, custom-fit orthotics, PRP injections, steroid injections, and in some cases, surgery, where the tendon is seriously damaged. If you observe any of the above-highlighted warning signs and suspect tendonitis, call the Mill Creek, WA office or request an appointment online today.
