Tendinitis is basically an overuse condition affecting a tendon that fastens muscle to bone. Take note that the inflammation which occurs after sustaining a pulled tendon can affect the neighboring joint, muscle or bursa tissue. The typical sites for strains or pulls that can trigger tendinitis include the wrist, shoulder rotator cuff, forearm and elbow as well as the Achilles tendon. The remedies for the pain and swelling are the same for all areas but the degree of treatment might vary on the extent of tendon strain.
Avoiding exercise
Pulled tendons can develop from chronic repetitive movements such as in various professions and sports. It is recommended to rest right after any overuse injury. The individual should stop any aggravating activity right away in order to reduce further strain on the tendon.
Once the activity is stopped, it provides immediate relief to the tendon pain and allows the body to start the healing process. The resting period must continue while the swelling and pain are still present.
Support aids
Once the individual returns to a mobile level or to restrain an injured tendon for relief from pain, there are area-specific aids that can be used. A hard cast or splint can be prescribed by the doctor to minimize the strain on the tendon as well as promote the healing process.
A sling can provide better support when it comes to rotator cuff tendinitis while utilizing a cane or crutches that takes off the weight from a leg with Achilles tendinitis.
Warm and cold therapy
During the initial 2-3 days after the start of the symptoms, the swelling can be managed with cold therapy. Controlling the inflammation reduces the pain as well as promotes the fast recovery of the tendon strain.
Late in the recovery period, warm therapy is utilized before stretching or when the tendon or muscle ache persists. The reusable gel packs can be stored in the freezer to be used as a cold pack or heated in a microwave as a warm compress. The individual must apply both warm and cold packs at least 20 minutes at a time.
Pain medications
Tendinitis can cause a lot of discomfort especially when the individual moves. It is important to note that ibuprofen or aspirin can manage the pain. In some cases, the doctor can also administer a shot of anti-inflammatory cortisone.
When to resume activity
There are a number of ways to help with the recovery of the tendon strain through exercise, but any method must take place in a gradual manner. It is recommended to perform simple range of motion stretches for flexibility and mild stretching of the pulled tendon as warm up before an exercise routine. In addition, the workouts to strengthen the affected tendon should steadily increase in intensity.