Tendovaginitis can have various causes – in most cases, persistent monotonous movement triggers the symptoms. A typical symptom is severe pain, which can occur during movement but also at rest. If tendonitis is treated properly, it usually heals on its own after a few days. It is particularly important that the affected joint is spared. Otherwise, a chronic course of the inflammation is also possible.
Tendonitis of the hand and elbow
In areas subject to heavy stress, tendons are protected from excessive wear and friction by a sheath called the tendon sheath. Inside the sheath is synovial fluid, which allows the tendon to slide back and forth smoothly. If the tendons are subjected to heavy stress, the surrounding tendon sheath is also affected and inflammation can develop. Such tendon sheath inflammation occurs particularly frequently in the thumb, hand, elbow or shoulder. In principle, however, any tendon can become inflamed, for example, also on the knees or feet.
Computer work and sports as a cause
The cause of tendonitis is usually repetitive, monotonous movements. This is often the case with computer work – for example, when operating the mouse or keyboard. But musicians or craftsmen who always perform the same movements (especially with their hands and arms) are also frequently affected. In addition, overstraining during sports is also a possible trigger. Typical sports that can result in inflammation of the tendon sheath are:
- Floor gymnastics
- Golf
- Climbing
- Tennis
In these sports, the discomfort usually occurs in the area of the hand, elbow or shoulder. Finally, various household activities can also trigger tendonitis. Thus, the overload can be triggered by unfamiliar activities such as renovation work, work in the garden as well as a move.
Infections and diseases as triggers
In rare cases, there is no overwork behind tendonitis, but an infection with pathogens such as chlamydia, gonococci or mycoplasma. In addition, diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis can also trigger tendonitis.
Symptoms of tendonitis
Strong pulling or stabbing pain in the area of the affected tendon is typical of tendon sheath inflammation. It is often the case that the hand or shoulder hurts with every movement. In some cases, however, the pain also occurs at rest. In addition, redness and swelling may indicate tendonitis. If there is severe thickening of the tendon sheath, a small bump appears under the skin. When moving the tendon, crunching noises can also sometimes occur. This is referred to as snowball crunching.
Carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis.
The symptoms experienced with tendonitis are often similar to those of carpal tunnel syndrome. However, in carpal tunnel syndrome, there is damage to the median nerve, which runs along the wrist. This damage to the nerve results from increased pressure within the carpal tunnel. Tendonitis is a possible cause of the increased pressure in the carpal tunnel. In addition to the median nerve, various tendons also run through the tunnel. If the affected tendon swells in the case of tendovaginitis, the space in the carpal tunnel is reduced and the nerve can be damaged. Typical symptoms are then pain and numbness in the area of the fingers.
Make a diagnosis
In the case of tendonitis, the diagnosis can often already be made on the basis of the typical symptoms. In addition, the doctor can palpate the relevant area and perform some movement tests. If a diagnosis cannot be made in this way, an ultrasound examination or an MRI can be performed. If a rheumatic disease is suspected, a blood test is usually performed.
Treating tendonitis
In the case of tendonitis, it is important to immobilize the affected joint – whether hand, elbow or knee – as much as possible. Bandages or splints can help prevent continued undue stress on the joint. It is also important to avoid the activity that led to the inflammation.The pain as well as redness and swelling can be relieved with cooling compresses. However, do not place the cooling compress directly on the skin, otherwise frostbite may occur. If the pain is very severe, taking painkillers may be an option. These often also have an anti-inflammatory effect and can thus ensure faster healing. In addition to tablets, anti-inflammatory ointments are also well suited. If the symptoms are severe, the attending physician can inject a mixture of cortisone and a local anesthetic into the inflamed area. Cortisone usually speeds up the healing process considerably. However, you should be informed about possible side effects beforehand. If the inflammation still does not heal, surgery is the last option. In this case, the narrowed area can be split and thus relieved.
Duration of tendonitis
If the tendon sheath is inflamed, it usually takes a few days for the symptoms to subside. Often, the healing process depends largely on how much rest is given to the affected joint. In rare cases, a chronic course is also possible. In this case, it takes several weeks to a few months for the symptoms to subside. Once the tendovaginitis has subsided, intensive follow-up treatment is recommended. Regular physiotherapy can prevent the symptoms from recurring and the inflammation from taking a chronic course. Likewise, you should try to avoid the triggering movement.
Preventive measures
With a few simple tips and tricks, you can ensure that tendonitis does not occur in your case. If you do a lot of PC work, it’s important to take it easy on your hands and fingers:
- Use a keyboard that is as flat as possible so that you do not have to bend your wrists too much when working.
- Place a pad in front of the keyboard and support the heels of your hands when typing – this will relieve the wrists.
- Use an ergonomically shaped mouse or operate the mouse for a change instead of the right with the left hand.
- Make in between again and again pauses and move and stretch your wrists a little.
Even with other monotonous movements, regular breaks are recommended in which you move and thus offer the body variety from the repetitive movements. To prevent tendonitis caused by exercise, it is important to warm up and stretch carefully before exercising.
