Tendonitis Treatment in Jefferson Barracks, MO | Axes Physical Therapy
Tendonitis treatment in Jefferson Barracks, MO. Tendonitis can greatly impact our day-to-day life and our ability to do the things we find the most joy in. Fortunately, there are various treatment options available to manage tendonitis, promote healing, and return you to the level of activity you’re used to. If you’re suffering from tendonitis, don’t wait to find relief. Qualified, professional Jefferson Barracks, MO physical therapists at Axes are standing by to recommend a personalized treatment plan to get you back on track. Contact the Axes location most convenient for you or contact us online to schedule an appointment in Jefferson Barracks, MO and begin your journey towards recovery.
If you’re suffering from any of the warning signs of tendonitis in Jefferson Barracks, MO, come visit us for an injury screening. If your physician has already diagnosed you with tendonitis, ask them if physical therapy in Jefferson Barracks, 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.
What Is Tendonitis
Tendonitis is a common injury that affects half) of physically active adults. Tendonitis occurs when the tendons become inflamed or irritated, causing pain and discomfort. Tendons are the thick cords that allow our muscles to move our bones, and they are extremely important for our body’s movement. Tendonitis can occur to any tendon, but it is most common in joints and extremities.
Diagnosis of tendonitis involves a physical exam by a physician in Jefferson Barracks, MO. Medical imaging tests, such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI, may be needed to verify the diagnosis and extent of the condition.
Types of Tendonitis And Their Symptoms | Tendonitis Treatment in Jefferson Barracks, MO
Tendonitis can can develop in any tendon in the body, due to a variety of reasons. The most common types of tendonitis our Jefferson Barracks, MO physical therapists see are:
Achilles Tendonitis
The Achilles tendon is a strong, fibrous cord, and it is used when you walk, run, and jump. Achilles tendonitis is often caught by runners and athletes who participate in sports that require jumping or quick changes in direction. Being over 30 and having flat feet are known risk factors.
Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include pain and lack of motion in the back of the heel, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity. The pain may also be present during activity, and it can worsen over time if left untreated.
Patellar Tendonitis
The patellar tendon affixes the kneecap to the tibia, and it helps in straightening the leg. Patellar tendonitis, also known as 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 tenderness around the patellar tendon, particularly in moments where you’re physically active. The pain may intensify when going up the stairs stairs or after if your legs have been bent for a period.
Rotator Cuff Tendonitis
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that come together as tendons that protects your shoulder and allows it to move. Rotator cuff tendonitis is a common injury 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 pain and weakness in the shoulder, especially when moving your arm upward or rotating it forward. The pain can also intensify in the evening or when lying on the affected shoulder.
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a condition that results from irritation or inflammation of the tendons located on the outer side of the wrist. Women are most likely to get it, and it is often caused by repeating the samehand movements movements, such as when knitting or gardening.
Symptoms of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis include pain and swelling at the base of the thumb, and difficulty gripping or pinching objects.
Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is the inflammation or microtearing of the tendons that attach to the outer part of the elbow. It is often caused by repetitive wrist and arm movements, for example playing tennis or using a screwdriver.
Symptoms of tennis elbow include pain and irritation 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, hence the name. However, 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 small tears to form, leading to inflammation and pain.
Symptoms of Golfer’s elbow include pain and irritation on the inner side of the elbow, which occasionally spreads to the forearm and wrist. Your elbow may also feel stiff or weak, making it difficult to carry things or perform everyday functions.
Tendonitis Treatment in Jefferson Barracks, MO: Are You at Risk?
There are numerous risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing tendonitis, including:
- Repetitive motions and overuse — Repeating the same motion over and over, whether in the workplace, a hobby, or in everyday life, can cause strain on the tendons and lead to tendonitis.
- Overuse — Kind of life repetitive motions, overuse means prolonged use of a particular tendon without allowing your body to recover. This can occur from heavy physical activity without rest in between, or from abruptly increasing how hard you train the joint without proper conditioning.
- Age — Tendonitis happens more frequently in people over the age of 40 as tendons get less elastic as we age.
- Poor posture — Poor posture can put strain on the tendons and muscles in the neck, shoulders, and arms, increasing the risk of developing tendonitis.
- Lack of flexibility — Individuals who don’t regularly work on their flexibility may be at higher risk of developing tendonitis.
- Trauma — Tendonitis can also occur because of direct trauma such as a fall or direct impact while playing sports.
- Muscle imbalances — Unbalances can result from stronger muscles in some muscles than others, which puts more pressure on the tendons.
- Inactivity — Living a sedentary lifestyle can weaken the muscles and tendons and make them less flexible, increasing the risk of developing tendonitis.
- Medical conditions — Certain medical issues, like rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes, can increase the likelihood of developing tendonitis.
- Medications — Certain medications, for example corticosteroids or fluoroquinolone antibiotics, can also increase the likelihood of developing tendonitis.
Although not all instances of tendonitis in Jefferson Barracks, MO can be prevented, it’s important to know what the risk factors are and try to improve any you may be experiencing. This may mean resting often during repetitive activities, studying safe techniques, understanding appropriate posture, and staying active. Additionally, seeking 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 Jefferson Barracks, MO for Tendonitis Treatment
Physical therapy is the first line of defense and treatment for tendonitis. Your Jefferson Barracks, MO physical therapist can help you to design a customized physical therapy plan to help ease your pain and discomfort and prevent further damage to the affected tendon. The following are some physical therapy treatments that help those with tendonitis:
- Stretching and strengthening exercises are an important part of physical therapy for tendonitis. These exercises work to improve flexibility and correct any muscle imbalances.
- Manual physical therapy is utilizes hands-on techniques to relieve pain and improve mobility. Techniques include massage, joint mobilization, and soft tissue mobilization.
- Ultrasound therapy is a type of physical therapy that uses sound waves to treat soft tissue injuries like tendonitis.
- Electrical stimulation is a type of physical therapy that uses electrical currents to provide pain relief and encourage healing.
- Heat and cold therapy are commonly used in physical therapy for tendonitis. Heat can help to increase blood flow, while cold works to reduce inflammation and ease pain.
- Dry needling is a technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific trigger points in and around the affected tendon. By making these micro tears, trigger point dry needling encourages the body to heal itself.
- Activity modification as recommended by your physical therapist can reduce stress on the affected tendon. This may include making improvements to your technique or 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. The physical therapist may also offer guidance on changes to your lifestyle such as diet, exercise, and proper posture to help promote healing.
Tendonitis treatment by way of physical therapy is meant to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness while promoting flexibility and healing of the injured soft tissue to restore optimal function and mobility and get you back to the activities you most enjoy. In addition to some of the above techniques, we’ll also include injury prevention into your physical therapy program so you can stay in top shape once you get back there. Physical therapy can help reduce the risk of recurrence by addressing the underlying causes of tendonitis. Jefferson Barracks, MO physical therapists can identify areas of weakness and muscle imbalances that may be contributing to the condition, and create a customized treatment plan to address those issues.
How to Prepare For Your 1st Appointment With a Physical Therapist in Jefferson Barracks, MO
If you are experiencing symptoms of tendonitis and have made the decision to get an injury screening from a physical therapist in Jefferson Barracks, MO, there are several things you can do to get the most out of your first appointment:
- Collect information — Before your appointment, write down details about your symptoms, including when they started, how long you’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 comfortable clothing — Your physical therapist may want to see you 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 doctor about your symptoms, bring the records with you to your appointment.
- Prepare questions — Write down any questions you may have about your condition, treatment options, what you can do to prevent further injury, or even questions about the physical therapist and their experience. This will help you to get the most out of your appointment, begin a more personalized relationship with your physical therapist, 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 Jefferson Barracks, MO, you can help to ensure that you receive the best treatment for your tendonitis and get back to the activities you love as soon as possible.
Tips to Prevent Tendonitis in Jefferson Barracks, MO
While not every tendonitis injury is preventable, there are many things youy can do 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 Jefferson Barracks, 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 Jefferson Barracks, 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 Jefferson Barracks, MO
Tendonitis can be an exasperating and weakening condition, but with safe and effective treatments, 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 Jefferson Barracks, MO patients overcome tendonitis and return to their normal activities with an entirely new outlook on physical activity. If you’re dealing with tendonitis, don’t let it keep you from things you love. Contact Axes Physical Therapy in Jefferson Barracks, 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.