Hello, how can we help?
Tendonitis and Tendon Rupturesplaceholder
Feel Better. Get Moving.

Tendonitis and Tendon Ruptures

Common tendonitis and tendon ruptures

Common Tendonitis and Tendon Ruptures conditions we treat

Rotator Cuff Tears

Trigger Finger

Achilles Rupture

Distal Biceps

  • Tennis elbow/Golfer’s elbow
  • DeQuervain’s tendonitis
  • Wrist/hand tendonitis
  • Knee patellar tendonitis
  • Ankle tendonitis
  • Hip tendonitis
  • Mallet finger

Common symptoms of tendonitis and tendon ruptures

  • Pain and stiffness
  • Mild swelling
  • Tenderness
  • Crunchy sound or feeling
Request an Appointment
Tendonitis and Tendon Rupturesplaceholder
Tendonitis and Tendon Rupturesplaceholder

Heading

Heading

The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.

Request an Appointment
Justin Newman, MD

Heading

Heading

The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.

Book an Appointment
Dr. talking to patient

Heading

Heading

The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.

Book an Appointment
Ariel Williams OCC
Tendonitis and Tendon Rupturesplaceholder

Diagnosis of tendonitis and tendon ruptures

When you arrive for your appointment, your doctor will first ask you about when the pain started, what activity caused the discomfort, and what the pain feels like today. Next, your doctor will check the afflicted area, note any physical symptoms, and determine whether the injury is limiting your range of motion.

After gathering this data, your doctor may recommend capturing some X-rays to understand the scope and extent of your injury. The X-ray also helps your doctor rule out any other possible conditions, such as arthritis, stress fractures, or infection. Depending on the state of your injury, your doctor may request an MRI to properly diagnose the issue.

Steps to diagnosis

  • Discussion
  • Physical exam
  • Imaging

What are my options?

Non-Surgical

The great news about tendonitis and tendon ruptures is that surgery is unnecessary for most cases. Applying ice and compression provides relief while resting, elevation, stretching, and modification of activities can also assist in a successful healing process. Your doctor might recommend taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain. They may also ask you to avoid activities or movements that aggravate the injured tendon.

Surgical

If your condition does not respond to other treatments, surgery may be required. Tendon ruptures should be treated with surgery early to prevent contracture and scarring that could lead to more complicated surgery. It is important to seek treatment urgently if you are concerned about a tendon rupture. Surgical repair of torn tendons often requires some form of immobilization post-operatively and a course of physical or occupational therapy.

Tendonitis and Tendon Rupturesplaceholder
Tendonitis and Tendon Rupturesplaceholder

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between tendonitis and a tendon rupture?

Tendonitis involves tiny tears that occur over time, while a tendon rupture is more sudden and debilitating. When the connective tissues between your muscles and bones (the tendons) become inflamed, tendonitis occurs. Tendonitis is often caused by repetitive activities such as lifting heavy objects at work or playing a backhand in tennis. A ruptured tendon is often caused by one significant injury that tore the tendon during a moment of excess strain.

How can I prevent tendonitis and tendon ruptures?

There are a variety of stretches, activities, and lifestyle changes you can make to prevent tendon issues.

  • Proper posture can help prevent tendon ruptures and tendonitis, so avoid staying in the same position for long periods and invest in an ergonomic workspace set up.
  • Refrain from partaking in activities that place extra strain on your tendons or compromise your technique, form, and posture.
  • Strengthening muscles can help them better withstand stress and inflammation down the road.
  • If a particular activity is causing pain, switch up your routine by opting for low-impact exercises, such as biking or swimming.
  • Make sure to stretch before and after exercising to maximize your range of motion and minimize repetitive strain on tight tissues.

Whatever the issue,
We're here to assist you.