Tendonitis
Description
Tendonitis is the irritation and swelling of the tendon. It generally causes pain and tenderness just outside the joint. Tenderness can be felt along the tendon or at one specific point in the tendon. Most commonly it occurs in the elbow, shoulder, knee, achilles, wrist, and base of the thumb.
Causes
Tendonitis can be caused by sudden, sharp movements or by repetitive running, jumping, or throwing. It may also be caused by poor posture at work or bad technique during exercise. It can increase with aging as the tendon loses elasticity. Systemic diseases can also contribute to tendonitis.
Primary Symptoms
Pain along the tendon can be a dull ache if tendonitis is chronic and pain can be more sharp if acute. Pain will usually increase with movement. There can be a grating feeling when the joint is moving. There is generally pain and discomfort at night with stiffness in the morning.
Treatment Philosophy
The over-arching question is always..."why?" Why has tendonitis developed? What activities and reasons are causing inflammation and pain of the tendon?
A thorough history will be completed to discover what activities and movements have contributed to the condition. Strategies to stop the aggravating factors will be discussed. Inflammation in the joint will be treated using Scenar. Structural misalignment will be corrected. Structural issues must be addressed as they cause new wear patterns that lead to continued inflammation of the tendon.
Expected Outcomes
By understanding posture and activity, reducing current inflammation with Scenar, and balancing the body structure with Bowen, Tendonitis can and usually does resolve.