Best Anti Inflammatory for Tendonitis

Understanding Tendinopathy

Definition and Causes

Tendinopathy refers to a disorder of the tendons, which are the fibrous tissues that connect muscles to bones. This condition is often characterized by pain, swelling, and impaired function of the affected tendon (MayoClinic).

Tendinopathy can result from acute injuries or chronic overuse, leading to inflammation or degeneration of the tendon tissue.

The primary causes of tendinopathy include:

• Overuse: Repetitive activities or excessive force can strain the tendons, leading to micro-tears and inflammation.
• Age: Tendons lose elasticity and strength with age, making them more susceptible to injury.
• Biomechanical Factors: Poor posture, improper technique, or imbalances in muscle strength can contribute to tendon stress.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and obesity can increase the risk of developing tendinopathy.

Types of Tendinopathy

There are various types of tendinopathy, each affecting different tendons in the body. Understanding the specific type can help in selecting the most effective treatment options.

Below are some common tendinopathy conditions:

Each type of tendinopathy requires a tailored approach to treatment. For instance, Achilles tendinopathy may benefit from eccentric strengthening exercises, while wrist tendonitis might require activity modification and ergonomic adjustments.

For more information on specific types of tendinopathy and their treatments, explore our articles on tendinosis vs tendinitis and natural remedies for tendonitis inflammation.

Treatment Options for Tendinopathy

When dealing with tendinopathy, there are several treatment options available to help manage pain and inflammation. This section will cover the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and the role of physical therapy and exercise.

These treatment options should be treated as a general guideline, always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance on tendinopathy treatment and medication that is right for you.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs are commonly used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation associated with tendinopathy. These medications can be administered either topically or orally.

NSAIDs work by stopping the body from producing certain chemicals that cause inflammation, functioning similarly to corticosteroids but without the side effects of steroids (Cleveland Clinic).

Ibuprofen is often the drug of choice for initial therapy, with other options including naproxen and indomethacin (Medscape).

These NSAIDs are a general suggestion and it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for the most suitable NSAID and dosages for you.

Corticosteroids and Their Role

Corticosteroids may be considered for tendinopathy when conservative therapy has failed. These agents have both anti-inflammatory and salt-retaining properties, modifying the body's immune response to diverse stimuli (Medscape).

Corticosteroid injections can provide significant pain relief and reduce inflammation, but they should be used with caution as they can weaken tendons and potentially lead to tendon rupture.

The dosages are a general suggestion and it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before considering corticosteroid injections.

For more details on treating tendon conditions, check out our pages on tendinosis recovery and tendinopathy healing.

Physical Therapy and Exercise

Physical therapy and exercise play a crucial role in the treatment of tendinopathy. A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to help strengthen the affected tendons, improve flexibility, and promote healing.

In addition to exercises, physical therapy may include modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and manual therapy to reduce pain and inflammation.

For more information on specific tendinopathy conditions, visit our pages on achilles tendinopathy and patellar tendinopathy.

By combining NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and physical therapy, you can effectively manage tendinopathy and promote healing.

Alternative Therapies for Tendinopathy

When dealing with tendinopathy, exploring alternative therapies can provide additional options for pain relief and healing. Here, we discuss three popular alternative treatments: shockwave therapy, prolotherapy and PRP injections, and acupuncture.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic waves to promote healing in damaged tendons. This therapy can be particularly effective for conditions like Achilles tendinopathy (Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery).

Prolotherapy and PRP Injections

Prolotherapy involves injecting a solution, often containing dextrose, into the affected tendon to stimulate healing. This therapy has shown significant clinical results in the treatment of Achilles tendinopathy, with positive outcomes reported in 12 out of 13 research studies for achieving pain relief and patient satisfaction (Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports).

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections involve using a concentration of the patient's own platelets to promote healing. However, the effectiveness of PRP injections for tendinopathy is still debated.

Acupuncture for Pain Relief

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese therapy that involves inserting very thin needles into specific points on the body. This treatment can help relieve pain and encourage healing by increasing blood flow and prompting the body to release endorphins, which are natural pain relievers.

For optimal results, several acupuncture sessions may be recommended (NYU Langone Health).

Acupuncture can be particularly beneficial for various types of tendinopathy, including patellar tendinopathy and gluteal tendinopathy. It is a safe and effective alternative therapy that can be used in conjunction with other treatments.

Exploring these alternative therapies can provide additional options for managing tendinopathy.

Seek RELIEF®

RELIEF® offers a science-backed, targeted approach to addressing symptoms associated with  tendinopathy and tendonitis.^{1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9}

Focusing on treating impacted connective tissue, also known as fascia, that surround the affected tendon to promote healing and enable further support for nearby musculoskeletal structures. RELIEF® is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional treatments—and requires no steroids, medication, surgery, anesthesia, or post-procedure immobilization.

Self-Care and Home Remedies

RICE Protocol

The RICE protocol is a fundamental approach to managing tendonitis. RICE stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. This method is effective in reducing pain and inflammation, promoting healing, and preventing further injury.

• Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate the injured tendon. Resting the affected area helps to prevent further damage and allows the healing process to begin.
• Ice: Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every few hours. Ice helps to reduce swelling and numb the pain.
• Compression: Use an elastic bandage or compression wrap to reduce swelling. Ensure the wrap is snug but not too tight to avoid restricting blood flow.
• Elevation: Elevate the injured area above the level of your heart to reduce swelling.

Heat and Ice Therapy

Heat and ice therapy are effective methods for managing pain and inflammation associated with tendonitis.

• Ice Therapy: Ice is particularly helpful for sudden injuries. It numbs the pain and reduces inflammation that causes swelling. Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes every few hours during the initial stages of injury.
• Heat Therapy: Heat is beneficial for chronic, long-term tendon pain or tendinosis. It increases blood flow to the affected area, which can aid in the healing process. Use a heating pad or warm towel for 15-20 minutes to relieve discomfort.

For more insights on managing tendonitis with heat and ice therapy, check out natural remedies for tendonitis inflammation.

Activity Modification and Rest

Modifying your activities and ensuring adequate rest are crucial for the recovery of tendonitis.

• Activity Modification: Avoid activities that caused the injury and other activities that put stress on the affected tendon. Gradually reintroduce activities as the pain subsides and the tendon heals.
• Rest: Resting the affected area is essential to prevent further damage and allow the tendon to heal. Avoid returning to work or sports too soon, as this can increase the risk of re-injury.

For more tips on activity modification and rest, visit how long does tendonitis last.‍‍

‍Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how RELIEF® may help tendinopathy and tendonitis.