DIET | DETECTIVE^®

So you are sitting around with friends when someone starts complaining about the tendonitis in their knee that has forced them to abandon their exercise routine.  Another excuse to avoid the gym? Maybe not, Tendonitis is a serious condition and can limit tolerance for physical activity. 

Tendonitis is inflammation of a tendon. Tendons are connective tissues that bind muscle to bone. They have a smaller number of contractile elements than muscle so tendons are less flexible.  Tendonitis occurs when these tendons become inflamed and irritated.  

Tendons become inflamed most often due to overuse.  When a muscle is working excessively it tends to stay in a contracted position and has difficulty relaxing.  This constant contraction (muscle tightness) causes irritation to the musculoskeletal system.  Since the tendon has fewer contractile units than muscle it is more susceptible to breakdown and inflammation.

How can you tell if you have tendonitis?

Morning pain is a common symptom because the muscle stiffens as you sleep. Pain usually decreases as activity increases and the blood flows to the area relaxing it.

The tendon is also usually tender to touch.  Also remember it is an overuse injury which occurs when a muscle isn’t strong enough to withstand the stress it is under.  So if there is a specific time and event that caused pain in your muscle or tendon you most likely have a different injury.

How to treat tendonitis? Ice the area at least once a day for 20 min.  See RICE: 4 Simple Steps to a Speedy Recovery for details on icing.  Also try to rest the area when you are not exercising.  Gentle stretching to the area once it is warm will help decrease the stiffness that sets in after activity.  Unfortunately oftentimes if the tendonitis is severe, complete rest from activity is the best treatment.  So follow the above guidelines to keep it under control before it gets to that state.

Remember to always consult your physician or physical therapist for an accurate diagnosis.

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