Tendonitis is a condition in which the tendons become inflamed and swollen. Tendons are thick bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones.

Tendonitis is a common injury that usually results from overuse, repetitive motions, or sudden trauma to the affected area. It can occur in any part of the body where there are tendons but is most common in the wrist, elbow, shoulder, knee, and ankle.

Symptoms of Tendonitis

The symptoms of tendonitis include pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area. The pain may be mild or severe, and it may worsen with movement or activity.

There may also be stiffness in the affected joint, and in some cases, there may be a clicking or popping sound when the joint is moved.

In more severe cases, there may be weakness in the affected limb, and it may become difficult to perform simple tasks such as opening a jar or gripping a pen. In some cases, the pain may radiate to other parts of the body such as the arm or hand.

Causes of Hand Pain in Tendonitis

Hand pain in tendonitis is usually caused by overuse or repetitive strain on the tendons in the hand and wrist.

This can occur in people who engage in activities that require repetitive motions of the hand and wrist, such as typing, using a computer mouse, playing a musical instrument, or gripping tools such as a hammer or a wrench.

Other causes of tendonitis in the hand and wrist include injury to the area, such as a sprain or a fracture, or infection of the tendon. Additionally, certain medical conditions such as diabetes and gout can increase the risk of developing tendonitis.

Types of Tendonitis in the Hand and Wrist

There are several types of tendonitis that can occur in the hand and wrist, including:.

De Quervain’s Tendonitis

De Quervain’s tendonitis is a condition in which the tendons at the base of the thumb become inflamed and swollen.

This can cause pain and tenderness at the base of the thumb, and can make it difficult to perform tasks that require gripping or pinching.

Trigger Finger

Trigger finger is a condition in which the tendons in the finger become inflamed and swollen, causing the finger to get stuck in a bent position.

This can cause pain and tenderness in the affected finger and can make it difficult to perform tasks that require gripping or pinching.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the median nerve, which runs through the wrist, becomes compressed.

This can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and fingers, and can make it difficult to perform tasks that require fine motor skills.

Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow is a condition in which the tendons on the outside of the elbow become inflamed and swollen. This can cause pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow and can make it difficult to perform tasks that require gripping or lifting.

Treatment for Hand Pain in Tendonitis

The treatment for hand pain in tendonitis depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medication may be sufficient to alleviate symptoms.

In more severe cases, physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or surgery may be necessary.

Additionally, making changes to the way you perform certain activities can help prevent tendonitis from recurring.

This may include taking breaks during repetitive tasks, using ergonomically designed tools and equipment, and performing exercises to strengthen the muscles and tendons in the affected area.

Preventing Hand Pain in Tendonitis

There are several things you can do to help prevent hand pain in tendonitis, including:.

Performing stretching exercises before and after repetitive tasks
Taking frequent breaks during repetitive tasks
Using ergonomic equipment and tools
Warming up before engaging in physical activity
Using proper form and technique when engaging in physical activity
Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, which can increase the risk of developing tendonitis
Maintaining a healthy weight, which can help reduce strain on the tendons and joints

Conclusion

Hand pain in tendonitis can be a frustrating and painful condition, but with proper treatment and preventative measures, it can be managed effectively.

If you are experiencing hand pain or other symptoms of tendonitis, it is important to see a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.