As the fall sports season kicks off, athletes may find that their sudden return to play takes a toll on tender tendons. Tendons are tough bands of connective tissue which attach to the bone. They are the strong, tough cords which may be felt in various areas of the body (wrist, ankle, knee). Tendonitis is often described as an inflammation of the tendon or at the tendon sheath (connective tissue which surrounds the tendon).

Signs of Inflammation

• redness
• swelling
• heat
• pain
• loss of function

These inflamed areas may have symptoms of pain with movement, swelling and crepitus (a crackling sound produced with movement). Tendonitis is generally considered an overuse type of injury. These injuries occur often during early sports season training or following a dramatic increase of activity level. This inflammatory condition occurs because development of the underlying muscle and tendon unit has not kept pace with the more strenuous training program.

A gradual return to full activity is always a good measure to follow. Upon return to activity, continue to apply heat to the affected area prior to exercise--apply ice after exercise.

Please consult your doctor if you have concerns about tendon pain. If you need a referral to a primary care physician in the Greater Cincinnati area, please call the Health Alliance at 1-888-749-DRDR.

Find a Physician