Tendonitis refers to pain in the joints or tendons caused by inflammation. Achilles tendonitis, at the intersection of the heel and the calf bone, is the most common form of tendonitis. Tendonitis can also occur in the shoulder, elbow, wrist and ankles. There are several options available to treat the pain associated with tendonitis.
Rest & Pain Relievers
The most common cure for tendonitis and the associated pain is simply to rest and refrain from activities. Most cases of tendonitis will resolve themselves within several days to a few weeks if the cause of the stress on the tendon is removed. During this time, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain medications such as ibuprofen) may be used to manage pain. Bandages and/or support devices may also be used to support the tendon and restrict motion.
Surgery
In severe cases, tendonitis can't be resolved by resting and avoiding stress. In such cases, surgery may be necessary to remove fibrous tissue that builds up between the tendon and the protective sheath that covers the tendon. Removing this tissue buildup, caused by damage to the stress and/or scarring, can relieve pain associated with tendonitis. Physical therapy and several weeks recovery time usually follow the surgery.
Alternative Therapy
Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture and TENS therapy, may be able to relieve pain associated with tendonitis. Acupuncture involves the use of needles at pressure points. TENS therapy involves the use of a machine that is hooked to the body by electrodes. The TENS machine administers small electrical impulses to the electrodes that are attached to the skin near the affected tendon. The electrical impulses interrupt the pain mechanism associated the tendonitis. However, neither acupuncture nor tendonitis cure the underlying cause of the tendonitis; they simply relieve the pain.
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