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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 70,000 people miss work because of tendonitis every year. And that statistic doesn’t include the thousands of others who have the condition but don’t miss work. The good news, according to Urgent & Primary Care in East Greenbush, NY, is that tendonitis can be managed and, in some cases, even cured. But first, the experienced family care physicians explain, you need to understand its inner workings.    

The Patient’s Guide to Tendonitis

What Is Tendonitis?

Tendonitis refers to the painful inflammation or irritation of one’s tendons, which are the thick, fibrous tissues that attach muscle to bone. It most often affects the elbows, wrists, fingers, and thighs but can also develop in other parts of the body. Tendonitis is caused by the overuse or injury of the tendons in these areas. Gardening, raking, and painting, for example, all require repetitive movements that may irritate the tissue. Sports like tennis and golf can also cause acute trauma. 

When tendonitis develops, the individual will experience pain at the site of the tendon and the surrounding area. This discomfort may fluctuate, sometimes remaining dull and other times becoming severe. Calcium deposits in the body’s tissues, blood vessels, and organs can also exacerbate symptoms.

What Are the Risk Factors?

family care physicianAs you age, so do your tendons. The tissues become less elastic and therefore cannot tolerate as much stress. Hence, adults – especially those over 40 – are more susceptible to tendonitis. But, according to Albany’s leading family care physicians, anyone can develop it. That’s why they encourage patients to exercise caution when performing physical activities. 

They also recommend patients familiarize themselves with other risk factors for tendonitis. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and thyroid disease can put stress on the body, making the tendons susceptible to overuse and injury. Additionally, certain medications can irritate the body’s soft tissues, putting the patient at a higher risk of tendonitis.

How Is It Treated?

Typically, your primary care doctor can diagnose tendonitis during a routine exam. However, they may also order X-rays or other tests to rule out any other conditions that could be causing your discomfort. Following the diagnosis, your family care physician will then develop a treatment plan meant to both relieve pain and reduce inflammation.  

For most, the first step is to avoid activities with repetitive movements and get plenty of rest. Alternating between hot and cold therapies can also ease discomfort. If your pain does not diminish after a week, your doctor may recommend you take an over-the-counter pain reliever as well as receive corticosteroid injections. In more serious cases, they may also refer you to a physical therapist.  

Whether you have tendonitis and need treatment or simply want to learn how to reduce your risk, Urgent & Primary Care is the practice to call. Based in East Greenbush but serving the greater Albany area, Dr. Laxmikant Bhoiwala and his daughter Dr. Dipti Bhoiwala are here for your medical needs. Call them at (518) 463-8262 today to schedule an appointment or visit the family care physicians online for more information.

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