Tendonitis Treatment in Weldon Spring, MO | Axes Physical Therapy
Tendonitis treatment in Weldon Spring, MO. Tendonitis can greatly affect our everyday life and our ability to do the activities we find the most joy in. Luckily, there are various treatment options available to manage tendonitis, promote healing, and return you to the level of activity you desire. If you’re struggling with tendonitis, don’t suffer in silence. Qualified, professional Weldon Spring, MO physical therapists at Axes are here to design a customized treatment plan that gets you feeling better than you did before. Reach out to the Axes location nearest you or contact us online to make an appointment in Weldon Spring, MO and start your journey towards healing.
If you think you may have tendonitis in Weldon Spring, MO, come see us for an injury screening. If your physician has already diagnosed you with tendonitis, ask them if physical therapy in Weldon Spring, 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 injury that affects many people globally. Tendonitis occurs when the tendons become swollen or aggravated, causing pain and stiffness. Tendons are the fibrous cords that attach muscles to bones, and they are extremely important for 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 appointment with a medical expert in Weldon Spring, MO to check for pain and swelling and evaluate 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 Weldon Spring, MO
Tendonitis can occur to any tendon in the body, for a variety of reasons. The types of tendonitis our Weldon Spring, MO 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 often caught by runners and athletes who participate in sports involving jumping or sudden 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, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity. The pain may also be present during activity, and it can worsen over time if you don’t seek out treatment.
Patellar Tendonitis
The patellar tendon attaches the kneecap to the tibia, and it helps in straightening the leg. Patellar tendonitis, also called jumper’s knee, typically occurs in athletes who participate in sports that involve jumping, like basketball or volleyball.
Symptoms of patellar tendonitis include pain and tenderness around the patellar tendon, particularly during activity. The pain can intensify when going up the stairs stairs or after sitting for long periods.
Rotator Cuff Tendonitis
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that come together as tendons that protects your shoulder and gives it motion. Rotator cuff tendonitis is a common condition often caught by people who participate in activities that require repetitive overhead arm movements, such as in swimming 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 worsen at night or if you sleep on the injured shoulder.
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a condition that results from irritation or welling of the tendons located on the outer 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 sewing or playing an instrument.
Symptoms of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis include pain and swelling where the thumb meets the wrist, and difficulty making a fist.
Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, also called lateral epicondylitis, is the inflammation or microtearing of the tendons that join the forearm muscles to the outside of the elbow. It is most frequently 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 a weak grip.
Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow, also called 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. But, it can also to anyone who frequently uses forceful wrist and finger motions. The excess stress on the tendons in the forearm and elbow can cause small tears to form, leading to irritation 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. There may also be weakness and stiffness in the affected area, making it difficult to grip objects or perform everyday activities.
Tendonitis Treatment in Weldon Spring, MO: Risk Factors
There are a variety of factors that can contribute to you developing tendonitis, including:
- Repeated motions and overuse — Repeating the same motion over and over, whether at work, for sport, or in general life, can cause strain on the tendons and cause tendonitis.
- Overuse — Similar to repetitive motions, overuse means overworking a muscle without proper rest or recovery. Overuse can occur from heavy physical activity without taking breaks, 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 who are middle aged and older as tendons get less flexible as we get older.
- Poor posture — Poor posture can put strain on the tendons and muscles in the neck, shoulders, and arms, increasing the chances of developing tendonitis.
- Lack of flexibility — Less physically active people who don’t regularly work on their flexibility may be at higher risk of developing tendonitis.
- Acute injuries — Tendonitis can also be caused by a sudden injury or trauma to the affected area.
- Muscle imbalances — Unbalances may arise when stronger muscles in some muscles than others, which puts more pressure on the tendons.
- Inactivity — Being sedentary for long periods of time can weaken the muscles and tendons and make them less flexible, increasing the chances of developing tendonitis.
- Medical conditions — Certain medical issues, for example rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes, can increase the risk of developing tendonitis.
- Medications — Certain medications, such as corticosteroids or fluoroquinolone antibiotics, can also increase the likelihood of developing tendonitis.
While not all instances of tendonitis in Weldon Spring, MO are avoidable, it’s important to know what the risk factors are and try to improve any that may apply to you. This may include resting often during repetitive activities, using proper form during exercise, being aware of correct posture, and staying active. Furthermore, getting treatment for any medical conditions that increase the risk of tendonitis, or going to physical therapy, can also help keep your tendons flexible and strong enough to not be harmed.
Physical Therapy in Weldon Spring, MO for Tendonitis Treatment
Physical therapy is often the first and best way tendonitis is treated. Your Weldon Spring, MO physical therapist will form a team with you and your doctor to implement a personalized treatment plan to help ease your pain and discomfort and prevent further damage to the affected tendon. Here are some physical therapy treatments that help those with tendonitis:
- Stretching and strengthening exercises are essential to any tendonitis treatment plan. These exercises can help to improve range of motion and sort out any muscle imbalances.
- In Manual physical therapy your therapist will use 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 penetrate deep into muscles and tendons and create a soft heat that increases blood flow and reduces inflammation.
- Electrical stimulation is a type of physical therapy 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 send more blood to the affected tendon, while cold can help to reduce swelling and alleviate 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 modificationas discussed between you and your physical therapist, can reduce tension on the affected soft tissue. This may include adjusting your technique or equipment, or taking breaks to rest the affected area.
- Education and lifestyle modifications from your physical therapist can provide education on correct body mechanics to help reduce the risk of re-injury. The physical therapist may also provide guidance on changes to your lifestyle such as nutrition, exercise, and proper posture to help promote healing.
Tendonitis treatment by way of physical therapy is intended to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness while increasing range of motion and encouraging healing of the injured tendon to restore normal function and return you to the activities you most enjoy. Beyond 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. Weldon Spring, 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 Weldon Spring, MO
If you are suffering from symptoms of tendonitis and have made the decision to seek treatment from a physical therapist in Weldon Spring, 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 makes them worse or better. 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 movements during your appointment, so it is important to wear loose clothing.
- 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 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 Weldon Spring, 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 Weldon Spring, MO
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 Weldon Spring, 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 Weldon Spring, 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 Weldon Spring, MO
Tendonitis can be an exasperating and debilitating condition, but with safe and effective treatments, 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 Weldon Spring, MO patients overcome tendonitis and return to their normal activities with renewed energy and enthusiasm. If you’re suffering from tendonitis, don’t let it control your life. Contact Axes Physical Therapy in Weldon Spring, 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.