effective treatments for tendinitis

Effective Tendinitis Treatment at Sobel Spine and Sports

Tendinitis, often spelled tendonitis, is a common condition causing pain and discomfort when a tendon – the strong, flexible tissue connecting muscle to bone – becomes inflamed or irritated. At Sobel Spine and Sports, we specialize in helping individuals effectively manage and recover from tendinitis, allowing you to return to your favorite activities pain-free.

What is Tendinitis?

Tendinitis can affect various tendons throughout the body, most commonly in the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and ankles. Specific types include:

  • Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): Pain on the outside of the elbow.

  • Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis): Pain on the inside of the elbow.

  • Achilles Tendinitis: Pain in the back of the heel.

  • Rotator Cuff Tendinitis: Shoulder pain and limited movement.

  • Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper’s Knee): Pain below the kneecap.

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent tendinitis from becoming a chronic issue.

Causes of Tendinitis

Tendinitis typically arises from repetitive motions or overuse, including:

  • Repetitive sports or work activities.

  • Poor posture or incorrect exercise techniques.

  • Sudden increases in exercise intensity.

  • Age-related tendon flexibility loss.

  • Underlying medical conditions like diabetes or arthritis.

  • Inadequate warm-up or stretching.

  • Improper footwear or equipment.

Recognizing Tendinitis Symptoms

Common symptoms include:

  • Pain around the affected tendon, especially with movement.

  • Tenderness to the touch.

  • Swelling or redness.

  • Limited range of motion or stiffness.

  • Clicking or cracking sensations during movement.

tendon inflammation and tearing
pain on the inside of the elbow is golfer's elbow

Diagnosing Tendinitis at Sobel Spine and Sports

Our diagnostic process includes:

  • Comprehensive medical history and symptom review.

  • Thorough physical examination.

  • Advanced imaging, such as ultrasound or MRI, to visualize tendon damage.

Effective Tendinitis Treatment Options

Our treatment plans focus on pain reduction, inflammation control, and restoring tendon strength and flexibility.

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatments:

  • Rest: Avoiding activities that exacerbate pain.

  • Ice Therapy: Applying ice to reduce swelling and pain.

  • Pain Management: Over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory medications.

  • Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises for strengthening and stretching.

  • Bracing and Support: Using braces or supportive footwear.

  • Lifestyle Adjustments: Modifying activities to prevent further injury.

exercises to relieve tendinitis
exercise to heal tennis elbow

Examples of exercises for tennis elbow. Each person needs to be evaluated to determine what is best for their condition.

Advanced Treatments: PRP and Percutaneous Tenotomy

PRP Injections

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections have become a popular treatment for tendinitis, a condition where tendons become inflamed or damaged from repeated use, injuries, or aging. PRP uses a person's own blood, which is drawn and then spun in a machine called a centrifuge. This process concentrates platelets, which are blood cells that help the body heal. Platelets contain growth factors—natural substances that help repair tissues, reduce swelling, and encourage new blood vessel formation.

During a PRP procedure, your doctor takes a small sample of your blood, processes it in the centrifuge to separate the platelets, and then injects this concentrated plasma directly into the injured tendon using ultrasound for accuracy. PRP injections are less invasive than traditional surgery, offering benefits like faster recovery and fewer complications. Patients often experience significant pain relief and improved function, especially in conditions such as tennis elbow, Achilles tendon problems, rotator cuff issues, and knee tendon injuries. Side effects are usually mild and limited to temporary soreness or minor swelling at the injection site. If you would like to learn more about PRP injections click here.

Percutaneous Tenotomy

Percutaneous tenotomy is another effective, minimally invasive treatment for stubborn cases of tendinitis. In this procedure, doctors use a special needle or small blade inserted through the skin to carefully break down damaged tendon tissue, encouraging the body's natural healing process. Ultrasound imaging guides the procedure, helping doctors precisely target the affected area.

Percutaneous tenotomy helps remove painful scar tissue and calcium deposits from the tendon, which can significantly relieve pain and restore movement. This treatment works well for conditions like plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, and long-term Achilles tendon problems. Compared to open surgery, percutaneous tenotomy typically involves shorter recovery times, minimal scarring, and lower risk of complications. Most patients notice rapid improvement in their symptoms and can return to normal activities within 6-12 weeks. Although it's generally safe and effective, possible side effects include temporary discomfort, minor bruising, and very rarely, nerve injury or infection.

Dr. Jerry Sobel at Sobel Spine and Sports in Phoenix has extensive experience performing percutaneos tenotomy procedures.

Recovery and Prevention

Recovery typically involves rapid pain reduction, minimal discomfort, structured physical therapy, and a gradual return to activities. Preventing tendinitis involves:

  • Gradual exercise progression.

  • Proper warm-up and cool-down routines.

  • Regular flexibility and strengthening exercises.

  • Maintaining correct posture.

  • Adequate rest during repetitive tasks.

  • Using appropriate equipment.

Home Care and Lifestyle Tips

  • Take frequent breaks during repetitive tasks.

  • Optimize ergonomics at work or during sports.

  • Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet.

  • Wear supportive footwear and protective gear.

Why Choose Sobel Spine and Sports?

We provide personalized care, advanced treatments like TendoNova, and expert guidance for lasting results. Our clinic offers:

  • Accurate diagnostics.

  • Customized treatment and rehabilitation.

  • Injury prevention strategies.

  • Advanced recovery options.

  • Dedicated, experienced medical professionals.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Consult a doctor if:

  • Pain interferes with daily activities.

  • Symptoms persist despite home care.

  • You experience swelling, redness, or ongoing discomfort.

Schedule Your Appointment

If you're experiencing tendinitis symptoms or are interested in advanced treatments like PRP or percutaneous tenotomy, contact Sobel Spine and Sports today. Let us help you return to your active life.