Tendon inflammation: causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Inflammation of the tendon can be a particularly debilitating condition, capable of compromising the stability and easier movements of the foot.

This disorder, called tendinitis or tendinopathy, affects the fibrous structures that connect the muscles to the bones of the foot, allowing for normal articulation. The tendons are stressed in virtually every movement of the foot, from simple ones like walking to more complicated or stressful ones, which cause overload or increased wear, such as changes in direction or sudden bursts of speed, typical of sports.

Besides the Achilles tendon , which is located at the back of the foot, the other tendons most commonly affected are the patellar tendon (knee), the epicondyle (elbow), and the tendons of the wrist and hand. When they become inflamed, perhaps due to trauma or prolonged stress, normal mobility is compromised, causing persistent pain.

Inflammation of one or more tendons is often caused by repetitive microtrauma, sudden movements, or excessive loads. This condition is particularly common among athletes and people who perform intense manual labor.

The possible causes

As we age, tendons lose elasticity and become more fragile. Therefore, it's advisable to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Regular stretching and maintaining good posture help reduce the risk of tendon inflammation.

Among those most at risk are athletes and those who participate in intense sports that place particular stress on the tendons, such as tennis, running, or basketball, with the consequent risk of overloading the tendons. 

Furthermore, those who maintain poor posture for long periods, even at work, can cause nerve compression and tendon stress. These aren't necessarily physical activities thought to be strenuous, such as those experienced by blue-collar workers. Just think of the annoying wrist pain that sometimes leads to tendonitis caused by prolonged use of a mouse and keyboard.

In some cases, tendon inflammation can be caused by diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or diabetes, which make the tendons more vulnerable.

Symptoms of tendonitis

Pain is the main symptom of tendonitis, but it's not the only one. The common symptoms of this inflammation can present themselves in different forms and degrees of intensity. 

During the acute phase, pain is intense during movement, and the affected area appears swollen. As inflammation increases, so does sensitivity to touch. If it becomes chronic, the inflammation causes increasingly persistent pain, even during rest.

Recognizing the symptoms of tendonitis is crucial for early treatment. Therefore, if, in addition to pain, you experience difficulty moving, swelling and redness in the affected area, and a sensation of heat, it's best to see a specialist.

What are the treatments for tendon inflammation?

Effective and timely intervention is essential to prevent tendon inflammation from worsening and further compromising quality of life.

But how can inflammation be treated? The least invasive treatment, which should be performed at the first signs of inflammation, includes rest and the application of ice. Avoiding strain on the inflamed tendon helps reduce swelling and pain. 

Other possible conservative therapies may include the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or oral or local corticosteroids, physiotherapy exercises, and shock wave treatments that stimulate the tendon's repair processes.

In more severe cases, when the inflammation persists for more than a few days, it is necessary to perform instrumental tests such as ultrasound, X-rays, or MRI to identify the inflammation and rule out the presence of other pathologies. Based on the results of these tests, the specialist may recommend cortisone injections or, in the most severe cases, surgery to repair the tendon.

How long does it take for an inflamed tendon to heal? With conservative treatment, recovery generally takes 4-6 weeks. However, if left untreated, this condition can lead to more serious complications, such as chronic pain, permanent nerve damage, and muscle atrophy.

Fortunately, several innovative techniques exist for treating these types of conditions. SmartHallux specialists leverage their professionalism and years of experience to provide a personalized, definitive solution to problems related to tendon inflammation in the foot, offering the possibility of shorter recovery times.

Start taking care of the health of your feet and ankles and book your first visit with SmartHallux!