Tendinitis (also spelled tendonitis) is a common condition that causes pain, inflammation, and tenderness around a tendon. Tendons are tough, fibrous tissues that connect muscles to bones and play a vital role in movement. Tendinitis often develops due to overuse or repetitive stress on a particular tendon, leading to micro-tears and inflammation.

While tendinitis can affect any tendon in the body, some of the most common locations include the shoulder (rotator cuff tendinitis), elbow (tennis elbow, golfer's elbow), wrist (de Quervain's tenosynovitis), knee (patellar tendinitis), and Achilles tendon (Achilles tendinitis).

If you're experiencing pain and tenderness around a joint, especially after repetitive activities, you might be dealing with tendinitis. Here's a closer look at the symptoms and how physical therapy (PT) can help you manage and treat it effectively.

Symptoms of Tendinitis

• Pain, especially when moving the affected area
• Stiffness and reduced range of motion
• Swelling or tenderness
• A grating sensation when moving the joint

If left untreated, tendinitis may worsen, leading to more severe pain and difficulty participating in your usual activities. The sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances of preventing long-term damage and returning to normal activities.

Physical Therapy Techniques for Managing and Treating Tendinitis

Healthcare providers often recommend physical therapy as the first line of treatment for tendinitis. A skilled physical therapist can help you manage pain, improve flexibility, and strengthen the muscles surrounding the affected tendon. PT typically starts with an evaluation of your condition.

Once the evaluation is complete, you’ll receive a personalized treatment plan designed to address your tendinitis and get you back to your activities pain-free. Here are some physical therapy techniques you can expect to see in your course of care:

Your therapist may employ techniques like ice and heat therapy or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation.

Soft tissue massage and joint mobilization can help improve flexibility, reduce muscle tightness, and may provide temporary pain relief to allow for more comfortable movement.

Specific stretches and strengthening exercises will be prescribed to improve flexibility and range of motion, strengthening the muscles that support the joint and protect the tendon. A focus on eccentric strengthening, which emphasizes muscle lengthening during contraction, is particularly effective for tendonitis.

Your physical therapist will educate you on proper body mechanics and techniques to avoid aggravating the tendon. They may also suggest modifications to your activities to prevent further injury.

Recovery Timeline with Physical Therapy

The recovery timeline for tendinitis can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of the condition, the location of the affected tendon, and your overall health. In most cases, consistent physical therapy can lead to significant improvement within six to 12 weeks. However, chronic tendinitis may take longer to heal, requiring ongoing treatment and strict adherence to a home exercise program. Early intervention is vital for faster recovery and preventing long-term damage. You can also maximize your chances of achieving the best results by diligently following your therapist's instructions and consistently performing your prescribed exercises. 

Why Choose In-Home Physical Therapy with Luna for Tendinitis?

In-home physical therapy is an excellent option for treating tendinitis.

1. No Need to Travel: Forget driving, traffic, and parking hassles. Receive expert care in the comfort of your own home instead. 
2. Faster Healing at Home: Your familiar home environment is more relaxing, which enhances healing. Also, therapists can assess your living space and integrate exercises into your daily routine, potentially leading to faster recovery.
3. Personalized Attention: Unlike at a clinic, Luna therapists dedicate their undivided attention to you during each session. You’ll feel more valued and well cared for.
4. Consistent Care: Work with the same therapist throughout your treatment.
5. Flexible Scheduling: Enjoy appointments that fit your schedule and lifestyle.
6. Reduced Exposure: Avoid illnesses and stay healthier at home, which is especially beneficial during cold and flu seasons or for immune-compromised people. 
7. Seamless Insurance Processing: Using your insurance, you'll pay the same for Luna's in-home PT as for a clinic visit. No insurance? No problem! The typical self-pay cost per session is $125.

Don't let tendinitis hold you back any longer. Contact Luna today to start your journey towards pain-free movement in the comfort of your own home. Our dedicated team is ready to help you overcome tendinitis and return to the activities you love.