Tendonitis is a common condition that affects the fibrous bands that connect muscles to bones in various parts of the body. It occurs when these bands become swollen or irritated due to injury, infection, or overuse. Tendonitis can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected area.
Tendonitis of the elbow and wrist is among the most common types, especially in people who use their hands intensively or repetitively for work or hobbies. Those who type on a keyboard, play video games, or engage in sports like tennis, golf, or swimming are at higher risk of developing this condition.
Causes of Elbow and Wrist Tendonitis
The causes of elbow and wrist tendonitis vary depending on the individual’s activities and health status. Some of the common causes include:
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Overuse: This can occur due to repetitive or strenuous movements of the hand, wrist, or elbow, such as typing on a keyboard, carrying heavy bags, using a hammer, or playing racket sports. Overuse can lead to swelling and inflammation of the tendons, particularly in areas like the thumb (De Quervain’s tendinitis), the outer elbow (tennis elbow), or the wrist (golfer’s wrist).
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Injury: Tendon injuries can result from falls, impacts, or fractures in the hand, wrist, or elbow. These injuries can lead to partial or complete tendon tears, causing sharp pain, bruising, and swelling in the affected area. In some cases, surgical treatment may be needed to repair torn tendons.
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Infection: Tendonitis can also occur due to infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi that enter the body through cuts, scratches, or animal bites in the hand, wrist, or elbow. These infections can cause inflammation, swelling, fever, and chills in the affected area and may require antibiotic, antiviral, or antifungal treatment.
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Chronic Diseases: Certain chronic conditions, such as diabetes (which damages nerves and blood vessels), rheumatoid arthritis (which causes inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues), and hormonal deficiencies (like testosterone or thyroid hormone deficiencies), can increase the risk of tendon damage and inflammation.
How to Prevent Elbow and Wrist Tendonitis
Preventing tendonitis is the best way to maintain the health of the hand, wrist, and elbow. Some preventive measures include:
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Warm-up before activity: Anyone who uses their hands frequently or repetitively should warm up the muscles and tendons before starting any activity. This helps improve blood flow and flexibility and reduces the risk of swelling or inflammation. Simple warm-up exercises, like massaging, stretching, or moving the thumb, fingers, wrist, and elbow, can be beneficial.
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Reduce strain: People who use their hands intensively should reduce the strain on their muscles and tendons by changing their movements regularly, taking short breaks, and using tools or equipment that reduce pressure or friction on the hands, wrists, and elbows, such as ergonomic pens, comfortable keyboards, or protective gloves. Consulting with a doctor or physical therapist to learn the proper techniques for hand and wrist movements can help prevent injury.
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Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can improve the health and function of the tendons in the hand, wrist, or elbow through techniques like massage, pressure, dry needling, or electrical stimulation. Physical therapy also includes exercises that strengthen, stretch, and release the tendons and surrounding muscles, increasing flexibility and joint stability.
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Medical Treatment: In cases where home or physical therapy treatments are ineffective or symptoms are severe, medical treatment may be necessary. This may include medications to reduce pain and inflammation, such as pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, or steroid injections. If an infection or tendon rupture is present, antibiotic treatment or surgery may be required.
Conclusion
Elbow and wrist tendonitis is a common problem that affects the quality of life for many people. It can result from overuse, injury, infection, or chronic conditions. It is important to understand the prevention and treatment options available, including home care, physical therapy, and medical treatment. If you experience tendonitis, do not ignore it or tolerate the pain. Seek appropriate medical help and follow the recommendations in this article to improve the health, mobility, and well-being of your hands and wrists.
