How to Cope with Tendinitis

Inflammation in the tendons leads to tendinitis, and this condition commonly produces chronic swelling and pain in various areas of the body. There are ways to deal or cope with tendinitis. If left untreated, complications such as torn tendons or an inability to complete physical activities such as playing tennis or jogging may result.

Things You'll Need

• Ice
• Medication
• Sling

Instructions

1. Give the tendon time to heal. Continuing with your normal level of physical activity can cause further pain and damage to tendons. Stop activity that irritates the tendon until your condition improves.

2. Position ice on injured tendons. Use an ice pack or package of frozen vegetables to reduce inflammation and pain linked to tendinitis. Apply the ice or a cold compress to the injured tendon for up to 20 minutes and then remove, says the Mayo Clinic. Repeat several times a day.

3. Dull minor pain with OTC medications. NSAIDs like ibuprofen and aspirin are regularly used to stop inflammation. Take NSAIDs as instructed to avoid irritating your stomach lining.

4. Take a corticosteroid to alleviate pain. Severe tendinitis may not respond to OTC drugs. In this case, a doctor may have to administer a steroid injection into the injured tendon to get rid of pain.

5. Elevate and protect the injured tendon. Reduce swelling in your lower extremities by using pillows to keep the injured leg or knee elevated. If tendinitis occurs in your knee or shoulder, use a sling or elastic bandage to immobilize the area and prevent further injury.

Tips & Warnings

• Depending on the severity of an injury, surgery or therapy may become necessary.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Tendinitis
• Medline Plus: Tendinitis