While tendonitis can be painful and frustrating, physiotherapy effectively manages pain, promotes healing, and prevents recurrence. Physiotherapists use a combination of techniques tailored to the individual’s specific needs. Here’s how physiotherapy can help:
What is Tendonitis?
Tendonitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon, the thick fibrous tissue that connects muscle to bone. It commonly occurs due to repetitive motion, overuse, or injury and is most often seen in the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and ankles.
Symptoms of tendonitis typically include:
- Pain, especially with movement
- Swelling in the affected area
- Tenderness or warmth to the touch
- Limited range of motion
How Does Physiotherapy Help in Treating Tendonitis?
- Pain Management
- One of the first goals of physiotherapy for tendonitis is to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. This is often achieved through modalities like:
- Ice Therapy (Cryotherapy): Ice can help reduce swelling and numb pain.
- Heat Therapy: Applying heat to the affected area can relax muscles and improve blood flow to promote healing.
- Ultrasound Therapy: High-frequency sound waves can stimulate tissue healing and reduce inflammation in deeper tissues.
- Electrical Stimulation: Techniques like TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) can help manage pain by interrupting pain signals to the brain.
- Reducing Inflammation
- Rest and gentle exercises are crucial for reducing inflammation and promoting tissue healing. In the early stages of tendonitis, physiotherapists may recommend restorative exercises and soft tissue techniques to reduce swelling and improve the mobility of the affected area.
- Strengthening Exercises
- Once the acute pain and swelling have been managed, the next phase focuses on strengthening the muscles around the tendon to relieve pressure and prevent further injury. These exercises are designed to gradually build strength, stability, and flexibility.
- For example, for Achilles tendonitis, a physiotherapist might prescribe eccentric strengthening exercises (slowly lengthening the muscle while it is under tension) to improve tendon resilience.
- Isometric exercises can also be used to strengthen the tendon without putting too much stress on the injured area.
- Stretching and Flexibility
- Tight muscles and tendons can increase the risk of tendonitis or slow down the healing process. Physiotherapists will incorporate stretching routines to improve flexibility, reduce tension, and enhance the range of motion. For example:
- Dynamic stretching before activity and static stretching after activity can help maintain flexibility and reduce muscle tightness.
- Specific stretches for the shoulder, elbow, or knee may be prescribed depending on the area affected by tendonitis.
- Biomechanical Assessments
- Physiotherapists can evaluate biomechanics, including posture, movement patterns, and technique. Poor body mechanics can exacerbate tendonitis or lead to recurring injuries. For instance, improper lifting techniques or running form may put unnecessary stress on certain tendons.
- Physiotherapists may suggest ergonomic adjustments or modifications to work or sports-related activities to ensure proper alignment and reduce strain on the tendons.
- Manual Therapy
- Physiotherapists often use manual therapy techniques to address muscle imbalances, improve circulation, and release tension. These techniques may include:
- Soft tissue massage to reduce muscle tightness and improve blood flow to the injured tendon.
- Joint mobilizations to restore normal movement and reduce stiffness in the affected area.
- Myofascial release to alleviate trigger points and soft tissue restrictions.
- Taping and Bracing
- Taping or bracing can help provide support to the injured tendon and reduce strain during activity. Taping techniques may also aid in reducing swelling and improving proprioception (body awareness) to help prevent further injury.
- Gradual Return to Activity
- One of the key components of physiotherapy is the gradual return to activity. After addressing the pain and inflammation, physiotherapists design a progression plan that safely reintroduces movement and exercise.
- They will guide you on how to ease back into sports or daily activities, gradually increasing intensity to prevent reinjury and ensure the tendon has time to heal fully.
Conclusion
Tendonitis is a common yet treatable condition that can severely impact your quality of life if left untreated. Fortunately, physiotherapy offers an effective, holistic approach to managing tendonitis by reducing pain, promoting healing, strengthening muscles, and preventing recurrence. If you’re dealing with tendonitis, consult with one of the physiotherapists at Kamloops Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre, to get a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and helps you return to your activities without pain.
To book an appointment, call 250-314-0788 or book online HERE.
