Tendonitis Treatment in Granite City, IL | Axes Physical Therapy
Tendonitis treatment in Granite City, IL. Tendonitis can greatly limit our mobility and ability to enjoy the activities we find the most joy in. Fortunately, there are numerous treatment options available to manage tendonitis, promote healing, and return you to the type of life you want. If you’re suffering from tendonitis, don’t wait to find relief. Seek help from a professional Granite City, IL physical therapist at Axes who can recommend a customized treatment plan to get you back on track. Call the Axes location most convenient for you or contact us online to request an appointment in Granite City, IL and begin your journey towards recovery.
If you think you may have tendonitis in Granite City, IL, come see us for an injury screening. If your physician has already diagnosed you with tendonitis, ask them if physical therapy in Granite City, IL 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.
What Is Tendonitis
Tendonitis is a common injury that affects many people globally. You get tendonitis when your tendons become swollen or irritated, lead to pain and stiffness. Tendons are the thick cords that attach muscles to bones, and they are extremely important for how we move in sports, other physical activities, and in daily life. Tendonitis can occur to any tendon, but it is most common in the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and ankles.
Identification of tendonitis involves an examination by a medical expert in Granite City, IL 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 diagnosis and determine the extent of the injury.
Types of Tendonitis And Their Symptoms | Tendonitis Treatment in Granite City, IL
Tendonitis can can develop in any tendon in the body, in a range of circumstances. The types of tendonitis our Granite City, IL physical therapists most frequently deal with are:
Achilles Tendonitis
The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the body, and it is used when you walk, run, and jump. Achilles tendonitis is a common condition that affects runners and athletes who participate in sports involving jumping or quick changes in direction. It is also more common in people 30 or older and people who have flat feet.
Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include pain and stiffness in the back of your foot, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity. The pain may also be present during activity, and it can get worse over time if left untreated.
Patellar Tendonitis
The patellar tendon connects the kneecap to the tibia, and it helps in straightening the leg. Patellar tendonitis, also called jumper’s knee, is a condition that affects athletes who participate in sports that require jumping, like basketball or volleyball.
Symptoms of patellar tendonitis include pain and irritation around the patellar tendon, particularly during activity. The pain can also worsen when climbing stairs or after sitting for long periods.
Rotator Cuff Tendonitis
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surrounds the shoulder joint, and it helps in the movement of the arm. Rotator cuff tendonitis is a common injury that affects people who take part in activities that require repeated overhead arm movements, such as in swimming or painting.
Symptoms of rotator cuff tendonitis include pain and weakness in the shoulder, especially when moving your arm upward or rotating it forward. The pain may also intensify at night or when lying on the affected shoulder.
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a condition that affects the tendons on the outer side of the wrist. It is more common in women than men and it is often caused by repeating the samehand movements movements, such as when sewing or gardening.
Symptoms of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis include pain and inflammation where the thumb meets the wrist, and difficulty making a fist.
Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, also referred to as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that affects the tendons that attach to the outer part of the elbow. It is often caused by repetitive wrist and arm movements, such as playing tennis or using tools.
Symptoms of tennis elbow include pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow, and weak grip strength.
Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow, also referred to as medial epicondylitis, is a type of tendonitis that affects the inner side of the elbow. This condition is common among golfers, which is how it got its name. But, it can also to anyone who frequently uses forceful wrist and finger motions. The repeated motion and stress on the tendons in the forearm and elbow can cause microtears, leading to inflammation and pain.
Symptoms of Golfer’s elbow include pain and irritation on the inside part of your arm, which can sometimes extend down to the forearm and wrist. There may also be weakness and stiffness in the affected area, making it difficult to grip objects or perform everyday functions.
Tendonitis Treatment in Granite City, IL: Are You at Risk?
There are a variety of factors that can contribute to you getting tendonitis, including:
- Repetitive motions and overuse — Repeating the same motion over and over, whether in the workplace, for sport, or in general life, can cause strain on the tendons and cause tendonitis.
- Overuse — Similar to repeated motions, overuse refers to the excessive use of a particular muscle or joint without allowing your body to recover. This can occur from heavy physical activity without taking breaks, or from abruptly increasing how hard you train the joint before your body is ready for it.
- Age — Tendonitis is more common in people over the age of 40 as tendons tear more easily as we get older.
- Poor posture — Poor posture can put stress on the tendons and muscles in the neck, shoulders, and arms, increasing the possibility of developing tendonitis.
- Lack of flexibility — Individuals who don’t regularly work on their flexibility may be more prone to developing tendonitis.
- Trauma — Tendonitis can also be caused by a sudden injury or trauma to the affected area.
- Muscle imbalances — When some muscles are stronger than others, it can result in imbalances and lead to increased pressure on the tendons.
- Inactivity — Living an inactive lifestyle can weaken the muscles and tendons and make them less flexible, increasing the likelihood of developing tendonitis.
- Medical conditions — Certain medical issues, 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 risk of developing tendonitis.
While not all cases of tendonitis in Granite City, IL can be prevented, it’s important to know what the risk factors are and try to improve any that may apply to you. This may mean taking frequent breaks during repetitive activities, studying safe techniques, practicing proper posture, and staying active. Additionally, seeking treatment for any medical conditions related to tendonitis, or going to physical therapy, can also help to prevent its development.
Physical Therapy in Granite City, IL for Tendonitis Treatment
Physical therapy is usually the first and best way tendonitis is treated. Your Granite City, IL physical therapist can help you to create a customized exercise plan to help alleviate your pain and discomfort and prevent further damage to the affected tendon. Below are some physical therapy treatments that help those with tendonitis:
- Stretching and strengthening exercises are vital for any tendonitis treatment plan. These exercises work to improve flexibility and sort out any muscle imbalances.
- Manual physical therapy is utilizes 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 muscles and tendons and provide a soft heat that increases blood flow and reduces swelling.
- Electrical stimulation is a physical therapy treatment that uses electrical currents to stimulate the muscles and promote healing.
- Heat and cold therapy are commonly used in physical therapy for a wide range of soft tissue injuries. Heat can help to promote healing, while cold works to reduce swelling and ease pain.
- Dry needling is refers to inserting tiny needles into specific trigger points in and around the affected tendon. By making tiny tears in your tendon, trigger point dry needling stimulates the body’s natural healing process.
- Activity modification as recommended by your physical therapist can reduce stress on the injured tendon. This may involve changing the way you move or getting new equipment, or taking breaks to rest the affected area.
- Education and lifestyle modifications from your physical therapist can teach you correct body movements to help prevent further injury. They may also provide guidance on changes to your lifestyle such as diet, exercise, and proper posture to help promote optimal function and mobility.
Tendonitis treatment by way of physical therapy is meant to decrease pain, swelling, and stiffness while promoting flexibility and healing of the injured soft tissue to restore optimal function and mobility and return you to what you love doing most. Beyond some of the above techniques, we’ll also incorporate injury prevention into your physical therapy program so you reduce the risk of experiencing tendonitis again. Physical therapy can help reduce the risk of recurrence by addressing the root causes of tendonitis. Granite City, IL physical therapists can identify areas of that need improved strength and flexibility, and design a customized treatment plan to address those issues.
How to Prepare For Your 1st Appointment With a Physical Therapist in Granite City, IL
If you are seeking out physical therapy for tendonitis treatment in Granite City, IL, 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 they’ve had them, what activities aggravate them, and what, if anything, provides relief. This will allow your physical therapist to better understand your condition and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
- Wear loose clothing — You may be asked to perform certain exercises during your appointment, so it is important to wear comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement.
- Bring any relevant medical records — If you have seen a physician about your injury, bring the records 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 out of 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 Granite City, IL, you can help to ensure that you receive the best treatment for your tendonitis and get back to the activities you love safely and effectively.
Tips to Prevent Tendonitis in Granite City, IL
While it’s not always possible to prevent tendonitis, 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 Granite City, IL:
- 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 Granite City, IL 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 Granite City, IL
Tendonitis can be a frustrating and debilitating condition, but with the right treatment, you can restore 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 Granite City, IL patients overcome tendonitis and return to their normal activities with an entirely new outlook on physical activity. If you’re experiencing tendonitis, don’t let it keep you from things you love. Contact Axes Physical Therapy in Granite City, IL 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.