Tendonitis Treatment in Asheville, NC

A tendon is a type of tissue that serves to connect muscles to bones. Tendonitis occurs when this tissue becomes inflamed, which can cause dull aches, joint pain, swelling, and/or tenderness in the area. One of the most common forms of tendonitis is Achilles tendonitis, which occurs on the heel. However, tendonitis can appear on several parts of the body, including the hips, knees, shoulders, wrists, and elbows. Dr. Christie Lehman is a Regenexx® partner who is well-versed in the forms of treatment for tendonitis, which can allow our patients in Asheville, NC to eliminate their pain without the need for corrective surgery. Contact Asheville Regenerative Orthopedics & Sports Medicine today to discuss the benefits of our exciting techniques.

An accurate tendonitis diagnosis often requires a combination of a thorough medical evaluation and various diagnostic tests. When you visit Asheville Regenerative Orthopedics & Sports Medicine for suspected tendonitis, we may begin by discussing your medical history and symptoms. Physical examinations help identify areas of pain, swelling, or restricted movement. Imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI scans may be utilized to visualize the affected tendon and assess the extent of damage. In some cases, diagnostic tests like blood tests or aspiration of joint fluid may be conducted to rule out other potential causes of pain. This comprehensive evaluation approach helps to determine the diagnosis of tendonitis with certainty and guides the development of an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Tendonitis, also known as tendinitis, is a condition characterized by inflammation and irritation of the tendons, which are the thick fibrous cords that connect muscles to bones. Several factors contribute to the development of tendonitis. It is often caused by two main factors: a traumatic injury or repetitive movements. Traumatic injuries often include a sports injury, fall, car accident, and more. Repetitive motions often include work tasks, typing, tennis, golf, gardening, etc. Pre-existing conditions like arthritis, gout, and certain autoimmune disorders can also increase the likelihood of tendonitis. Inadequate warm-up, insufficient rest and recovery, age-related degeneration, and certain medications may further exacerbate the risk. Proper understanding of these causes can aid in preventing tendonitis and promoting overall tendon health.

Tendonitis can cause uncomfortable symptoms that impact your ability to live comfortably. The symptoms often occur where a tendon connects to a bone, such as the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, or heels. This condition has common names, like tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, pitcher's shoulder, swimmer's shoulder, and jumper's knee. Symptoms of tendonitis may include swelling, tenderness, or pain near the impacted joint or limb. If you experience any of these concerns, we encourage you to contact us as soon as possible.

Dr. Christie Lehman and her team will perform an in-depth analysis of your tendon in order to accurately identify the source of your pain, as well as create a personalized treatment plan to eliminate your pain and inflammation. These treatment plans may be made up of pain relievers, corticosteroids, physical therapy, or a revolutionary new treatment known as Regenexx. Each of these techniques will work differently, depending on each individual patient so it's always important to listen to Dr. Lehman's expert recommendations during your consultation.

How is tendonitis diagnosed?

Tendonitis is typically diagnosed through a physical examination, medical history review, and evaluation of symptoms. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other possible conditions.

How long does tendonitis take to heal?

The healing time for tendonitis depends on the extent of the damage or injury. Many people can heal from a minor tendon injury in less than four weeks, but chronic tendonitis can take longer than six weeks to reduce pain and irritation.

What are some risk factors for tendonitis?

The most common risk factors for tendonitis include:

• Being older than 40
• Engaging in sports, weight training, or vigorous exercise
• Having a job or hobby that includes repetitive movements

Which is better for treating tendonitis pain at home, ice or heat?

Both ice packs and heat are used to treat tendonitis pain. Ice is a better treatment for a sudden tendon injury to help reduce pain and swelling. Heat is often a better option for chronic tendonitis to increase blood flow which can reduce pain and support healing.

Can tendonitis be prevented?

While tendonitis cannot always be prevented, certain strategies can help reduce the risk of developing the condition. These include gradually increasing the intensity and duration of physical activity, using proper technique and equipment during sports or exercise, incorporating rest periods and cross-training into your routine, maintaining good posture and body mechanics, and addressing any underlying medical conditions that may contribute to tendonitis.

When should I see a doctor for tendonitis?

It's essential to see visit us if you experience persistent or worsening pain, swelling, or limited mobility in a joint or tendon, especially if the symptoms interfere with daily activities or affect your quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further damage and promote faster healing, so don't hesitate to seek medical attention if you suspect you have tendonitis.

Tendonitis is a painful condition that, in many cases, can actually worsen with time. Dr. Christie Lehman is widely regarded as an authority in the Asheville, NC area on all of the techniques that can be used to enhance your everyday life when it comes to painful conditions, such as tendonitis. Contact Asheville Regenerative Orthopedics & Sports Medicine today for a full analysis of your condition, as well as a recommendation for your custom treatment plan.