Tendonitis Treatment in Eureka, MO | Axes Physical Therapy
Tendonitis treatment in Eureka, MO. Tendonitis can greatly impact our day-to-day life and our ability to do the activities we love most. Fortunately, there are numerous treatment options available to manage tendonitis, promote healing, and get you back to the type of life you’re used to. If you’re struggling with tendonitis, don’t suffer in silence. Qualified, professional Eureka, MO physical therapists at Axes are standing by to recommend a customized treatment plan to get you back on track. Contact the Axes location nearest you or contact us online to schedule an appointment in Eureka, MO and begin your path towards recovery.
If you think you may have tendonitis in Eureka, MO, come visit us for an injury screening. If your physician has already diagnosed you with tendonitis, ask them if physical therapy in Eureka, MO is safe for you. Together with you and your doctor, we’ll form a team to focus on your healthy recovery and get you back to the activities you love.
Understanding Tendonitis
Tendonitis is a common condition that affects half) of physically active adults. You get tendonitis when your tendons become inflamed or irritated, lead to pain and lack of mobility. Tendons are the tough cords that allow our muscles to move our bones, and they play an essential role in our body’s movement. Tendonitis can occur in any part of the body, but it is most common in the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and ankles.
Identification of tendonitis requires an examination by a medical expert in Eureka, MO to check for pain and swelling and assess range of motion. Imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound or MRI may be ordered to verify the condition and determine the extent of the injury.
Types of Tendonitis And Their Symptoms | Tendonitis Treatment in Eureka, MO
Tendonitis can can develop in any tendon in the body, in a range of circumstances. The most common types of tendonitis our Eureka, MO physical therapists treat are:
Achilles Tendonitis
The Achilles tendon is a strong, fibrous cord, and it attaches the calf muscles to the heel bone. Achilles tendonitis is often caught by runners and athletes who play sports involving jumping or sudden shifts in direction. Being over 30 and having flat feet are associated risk factors.
Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include pain and lack of motion in the back of the heel, particularly after weaking up or after periods of inactivity. The pain sometimes presents itself during activity, and it can get worse over time if you don’t seek out treatment.
Patellar Tendonitis
The patellar tendon affixes the kneecap to the shinbone, and it helps in straightening the leg. Patellar tendonitis, also called jumper’s knee, is a condition that affects athletes who play sports that involve jumping, like basketball or volleyball.
Symptoms of patellar tendonitis include pain and tenderness around and within your kneecap, particularly in moments where you’re physically active. The pain can get worse when going up the stairs stairs or after sitting for long periods.
Rotator Cuff Tendonitis
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that keeps your upper arm bone in your shoulder socket. Rotator cuff tendonitis is a common condition that affects people who participate in activities that require repetitive overhead arm movements, such as in baseball or using a hammer.
Symptoms of rotator cuff tendonitis include soreness and weakness in the shoulder, especially when moving your arm upward or rotating it forward. The pain can also intensify in the evening or if you sleep on the affected shoulder.
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. Women are most likely to get it, and it is often caused by repetitive hand and wrist movements, such as when knitting or gardening.
Symptoms of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis include pain and inflammation at the base of the thumb, and difficulty a “sticking” or “snapping” sensation when moving the thumb or wrist.
Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that affects the tendons that bend your wrist backward away from your palm. It is often caused by repetitive wrist and arm movements, like playing tennis or using tools.
Symptoms of tennis elbow include pain and soreness on the outer part of the elbow, and weak grip strength.
Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a type of tendonitis that affects the inner side of the elbow. It occurs frequently in golfers, which is how it got its name. However, it can also be the result of other repetitive movements. The repeated motion and stress on the tendons in the forearm and elbow can cause small tears to form, leading to swelling and pain.
Symptoms of Golfer’s elbow include pain and irritation on the inside part of your arm, which occasionally spreads to the forearm and wrist. There may also be weakness and stiffness in the affected area, making it difficult to carry things or perform everyday activities.
Tendonitis Treatment in Eureka, MO: Causes
There are several risk factors that make you more susceptible to developing tendonitis, including:
- Repetitive motions and overuse — Repeating the same motion over and over, whether at work, a hobby, or in general life, can cause strain on the tendons and cause tendonitis.
- Overuse — Similar to repeated motions, overuse means overworking a muscle without giving your body enough time to recover. Overuse can occur from engaging in a particular activity or sport for an extended period without rest in between, or from suddenly increasing how hard you train the tendon before your body is ready for it.
- Age — Tendonitis happens more frequently in people who are middle aged and older as tendons tear more easily as we age.
- Poor posture — Tendonitis is more likely to occur when the muscles and tendons in the neck, shoulders, and arms receive undue stress because of poor posture.
- Lack of flexibility — Less physically active people who don’t consistently work on their flexibility may be at higher risk of developing tendonitis.
- Trauma — Tendonitis can also be caused by a sudden injury or trauma to the affected area.
- Muscle imbalances — Unbalances can result from some muscles being stronger or weaker than others, which puts more strain on the tendons.
- Inactivity — Living a sedentary lifestyle can negatively affect a tendon’s strength and flexibility, increasing the risk of developing tendonitis.
- Medical conditions — Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes, can increase the likelihood of developing tendonitis.
- Medications — Certain medications, for example corticosteroids or fluoroquinolone antibiotics, can also increase the chances of developing tendonitis.
Although not all cases of tendonitis in Eureka, MO are avoidable, it’s important to know what the risk factors are and take steps to minimize their impact. This may mean resting often during repetitive activities, using proper form during exercise, being aware of proper posture, and staying active. Additionally, getting treatment for any medical conditions related to tendonitis, or going to physical therapy, can also help keep your tendons flexible and strong enough to not be injured.
Physical Therapy in Eureka, MO for Tendonitis Treatment
Physical therapy is often the first and best way tendonitis is treated. Your Eureka, MO physical therapist will work with you and your doctor to design a customized physical therapy plan to help ease your symptoms and keep your tendon from becoming more damaged. Below are some physical therapy treatments that help people with tendonitis:
- Stretching and strengthening exercises are essential to any tendonitis treatment plan. These exercises work to improve flexibility and strength.
- In Manual physical therapy your therapist will use hands-on techniques to relieve pain and improve range of motion. Techniques include massage, joint mobilization, and soft tissue mobilization.
- Ultrasound therapy is a type of physical therapy that uses high-frequency sound waves to penetrate deep into soft tissue and create a gentle heat that increases blood flow and reduces swelling.
- Electrical stimulation is a physical therapy treatment that uses electrical currents to stimulate the muscles and encourage healing.
- Heat and cold therapy are frequently used in physical therapy for tendonitis. Heat can help to increase blood flow, while cold works to reduce swelling and ease pain.
- Dry needling is a technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific trigger points in the muscles to reduce pain and improve mobility. By making these micro tears, trigger point dry needling stimulates the body’s natural healing process.
- Activity modificationas discussed between you and your physical therapist, can reduce stress on the affected tendon. This may involve adjusting your technique or equipment, or resting more during intense physical activity.
- Education and lifestyle modifications from your physical therapist can teach you proper ergonomics to help prevent further injury. The physical therapist may also offer advice on lifestyle modifications such as diet, exercise, and proper posture to help promote optimal function and mobility.
The goal of physical therapy in the treatment of tendonitis is to decrease pain, swelling, and stiffness while increasing range of motion and promoting healing of the injured tendon to restore optimal function and mobility and get you back to the activities you most enjoy. Beyond some of the above treatment methods, we’ll also incorporate injury prevention into your treatments so you can stay active and stay healthy. Physical therapy can help reduce the risk of recurrence by addressing the root causes of tendonitis. Eureka, MO physical therapists can discover areas of weakness and muscle imbalances that may be contributing to the condition, and develop a personalized treatment plan to address those issues.
How to Prepare For Your 1st Appointment With a Physical Therapist in Eureka, MO
If you are having symptoms of tendonitis and have made the decision to seek treatment from a physical therapist in Eureka, MO, there are a few things you can do to prepare for your appointment:
- Collect information — Before your appointment, write down details about your symptoms, including when they started, how long you’ve had them, what makes them worse or provides relief. This will help your physical therapist to get a better sense of your injury and needs.
- Wear comfortable clothing — You may be asked to perform certain exercises during your appointment, so it is important to wear loose clothing.
- Bring any relevant medical information — If you have seen a physician about your symptoms, bring the results with you to your appointment.
- Prepare questions — Write down any questions you can think of about your injury, prognosis, and possible treatment, or even questions about the physical therapist and their experience. This will help you to get the most benefit from your appointment, help your physical therapist understand you better, and ensure that all of your concerns are addressed.
- Be honest — Be honest with your physical therapist about your symptoms, lifestyle, and any previous injuries or medical conditions. This will help them to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals.
By taking these steps to prepare for your first physical therapy appointment in Eureka, MO, you can help to ensure that you receive the most effective treatment for your tendonitis and get back to the activities you love as soon as possible.
Tips to Prevent Tendonitis in Eureka, MO
While not every tendonitis case is preventable, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing the condition. Whether participating in a sport or just going about your daily life, here are some tips to help prevent tendonitis in Eureka, MO:
- Warm up and cool down
- Use proper technique
- Gradually increase activity
- Take breaks and rest
- Stay hydrated
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Other services we offer in Eureka, MO include:
- Hip Replacement Physical Therapy
- Workers Comp' Physical Therapy
- Migraine Relief
- Sprain and Strain Treatment
- Geriatric Physical Therapy
- Injury Rehabilitation
- Pain Management Services
- TMJ Treatment
- Herniated Disc Treatment
- Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment
Call Axes Physical Therapy For Tendonitis Treatment in Eureka, MO
Tendonitis can be a frustrating and weakening condition, but with the right treatment, you can regain optimal movement health. From rest and ice therapy to physical therapy and medications, there are various options available to manage tendonitis and reduce pain. Axes has seen many Eureka, MO patients overcome tendonitis and return to their normal activities with an entirely new outlook on physical activity. If you’re suffering from tendonitis, don’t let it control your life. Contact Axes Physical Therapy in Eureka, MO today to learn how we can help you get back to your active and pain-free lifestyle. Call the location nearest you or contact us online today.