Tendonitis Treatment in St. Peters, MO | Axes Physical Therapy
Tendonitis treatment in St. Peters, MO. Tendonitis can greatly limit our mobility and ability to enjoy the things we find the most joy in. Luckily, there are numerous treatment options available to lessen pain and stiffness and get you back to the type of life you’re used to. If you’re dealing with tendonitis, don’t suffer in silence. Seek treatment from a licensed St. Peters, MO physical therapist at Axes who can design a personalized treatment plan to get you back on track. Call the Axes location most convenient for you or contact us online to make an appointment in St. Peters, MO and begin your path towards recovery.
If you’re suffering from any of the warning signs of tendonitis in St. Peters, MO, come visit us for an injury screening. If your physician has already diagnosed you with tendonitis, ask them if physical therapy in St. Peters, 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 many people around the world. You get tendonitis when your tendons become swollen or irritated, lead to pain and stiffness. Tendons are the tough cords that attach muscles to bones, and they play a crucial role in how we move in sports, other physical activities, and in daily life. Tendonitis can occur in any part of the body, but it happens most frequently in joints in your arms and legs.
Diagnosis of tendonitis involves a physical exam by a doctor in St. Peters, MO. 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 St. Peters, MO
Tendonitis can can develop in any tendon in the body, in a range of circumstances. The most common types of tendonitis our St. Peters, MO physical therapists treat are:
Achilles Tendonitis
The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body, and it is used when you walk, run, and jump. Achilles tendonitis is often caught by runners and athletes who participate in sports involving jumping or quick changes 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 in the morning or after periods of inactivity. The pain sometimes presents itself during activity, and it can worsen over the long term if left untreated.
Patellar Tendonitis
The patellar tendon attaches the kneecap to the tibia, and it helps in straightening the leg. Patellar tendonitis, also known as jumper’s knee, typically occurs in athletes who play sports that require jumping, such as basketball or volleyball.
Symptoms of patellar tendonitis include pain and tenderness around the patellar tendon, particularly during activity. The pain can get worse when climbing stairs or after if your legs have been bent for a long time.
Rotator Cuff Tendonitis
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that come together as tendons that surrounds the shoulder joint, and it helps in the movement of the arm. Rotator cuff tendonitis is a common condition that affects people who participate in activities that require repetitive overhead arm movements, such as in basketball or using a hammer.
Symptoms of rotator cuff tendonitis include soreness and weakness in the shoulder, especially when lifting the arm or reaching behind the back. The pain may also intensify at night or if you sleep on the affected shoulder.
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a condition that results from irritation or welling of the tendons located on the thumb 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 playing an instrument.
Symptoms of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis include pain and inflammation where the thumb meets the wrist, and difficulty a “sticking” or “snapping” sensation when moving the thumb or wrist.
Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, also called lateral epicondylitis, is the inflammation or microtearing of the tendons that bend your wrist backward away from your palm. It is often due to repetitive wrist and arm movements, like playing tennis or using tools.
Symptoms of tennis elbow include pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow, and a weak grip.
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, hence the 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 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 can sometimes extend down to the forearm and wrist. Your elbow may also feel stiff or weak, making it difficult to carry things or perform basic functions.
Tendonitis Treatment in St. Peters, MO: Are You at Risk?
There are a variety of factors that can contribute to you getting tendonitis, such as:
- Repeated motions and overuse — Repeating the same motion over and over, such as typing or painting, can aggravate the tendons and cause tendonitis.
- Overuse — Kind of life repeated motions, overuse means overworking a muscle without proper rest or recovery. Overuse can occur from engaging in a specific activity or sport for an extended period without rest in between, or from suddenly increasing the intensity or duration of an activity before your body is ready for it.
- Age — Tendonitis is more common in people 40 or older as tendons become less flexible and strong as we get older.
- Poor posture — Poor posture can put undue tension 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 more prone to developing tendonitis.
- Acute injuries — Tendonitis can also occur because of 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 pressure on the tendons.
- Inactivity — Living an inactive lifestyle can negatively affect soft tissue’s strength and flexibility, increasing the chances of developing tendonitis.
- Medical conditions — Certain medical conditions, for example rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes, can increase the risk of developing tendonitis.
- Medications — Certain medications, for example corticosteroids or fluoroquinolone antibiotics, can also increase the risk of developing tendonitis.
Although not all cases of tendonitis in St. Peters, MO are avoidable, it’s important to be aware of these risk factors and take steps to minimize their impact. This may include resting often during repetitive activities, studying safe techniques, understanding appropriate posture, and engaging in at least moderate physical activity. Furthermore, seeking treatment for any medical conditions related to tendonitis, or seeking out physical therapy before starting physical activity, can also help to prevent its development.
Physical Therapy in St. Peters, MO for Tendonitis Treatment
Physical therapy is often the first and best way tendonitis is treated. Your St. Peters, MO physical therapist will form a team with you and your physician to design a personalized physical therapy plan to help relieve your pain and discomfort and keep your tendon from becoming more damaged. 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 mobility and strength.
- In Manual physical therapy your therapist will use hands-on techniques to ease pain and improve mobility. It may 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 type of physical therapy that uses electrical currents to provide pain relief and promote 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 inflammation and alleviate pain.
- Dry needling is refers to inserting thin needles into specific trigger points in the muscles to reduce pain and improve mobility. 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 pressure on the affected 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 offer advice on changes to your lifestyle such as nutrition, exercise, and proper posture to help promote optimal function and mobility.
Tendonitis treatment by way of physical therapy is intended to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness while increasing range of motion and promoting healing of the injured soft tissue to restore optimal function and mobility and get you back to the activities you love most. In addition to some of the above treatment methods, we’ll also incorporate injury prevention into your physical therapy program so you can stay active and stay healthy. Physical therapy can help reduce the risk of recurrence by addressing the root causes of tendonitis. St. Peters, MO physical therapists can locate areas of that need improved strength and flexibility, and design a personalized treatment plan to address those issues.
How to Prepare For Your 1st Appointment With a Physical Therapist in St. Peters, MO
If you are experiencing symptoms of tendonitis and have made the decision to get an injury screening from a physical therapist in St. Peters, MO, there are several things you can do to prepare for your appointment:
- Collect information — Before your appointment, write down information about your symptoms, including when you first got them, how long they’ve had them, what activities aggravate them, and what, if anything, provides relief. This will help your physical therapist to better understand your condition and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
- Wear loose 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 information — 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 condition, treatment options, what you can do to reduce the risk of future injury, or even questions about the physical therapist themselves. 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 physical therapy in St. Peters, MO, 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 St. Peters, MO
While not every tendonitis injury 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 St. Peters, 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 St. Peters, 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 St. Peters, MO
Tendonitis can be a frustrating and debilitating 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 St. Peters, 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 St. Peters, 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.