Tendonitis is a common condition that occurs when the tendons in your body become inflamed, leading to pain and discomfort. While tendonitis can affect any tendon in the body, it commonly occurs in areas such as the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and heels. Understanding what triggers tendonitis can help you take preventative measures and avoid this painful condition. In this blog post, we will explore some common triggers of tendonitis and how you can protect yourself from developing this condition.
Overuse: One of the most common triggers of tendonitis is overuse of a particular muscle or joint. This often occurs in athletes or individuals who engage in repetitive motions for extended periods of time. Activities such as running, swimming, or playing tennis can put strain on the tendons and lead to inflammation. To prevent overuse-related tendonitis, it’s important to gradually increase your activity level, take breaks when needed, and use proper form during exercise.
Poor biomechanics: Another trigger of tendonitis is poor biomechanics, which refers to the way your body moves during physical activities. If you have improper alignment or muscle imbalances, it can put extra stress on your tendons and lead to inflammation. Visiting a physiotherapist or chiropractor can help identify any biomechanical issues and provide you with exercises or adjustments to correct them.
Aging: As we age, our tendons naturally become less flexible and more prone to injury. This can increase the risk of developing tendonitis in various parts of the body. To combat age-related tendonitis, it’s important to stay active, maintain a healthy weight, and incorporate strength training exercises into your routine to keep your tendons strong.
Inadequate warm-up: Failing to properly warm up before physical activity can also trigger tendonitis. Cold muscles are more prone to injury than warm muscles, so taking the time to stretch and warm up before exercising is crucial for preventing inflammation in the tendons. A physiotherapist or chiropractor can provide you with a customized warm-up routine based on your specific needs.
Improper equipment: Using improper equipment during physical activity can also contribute to the development of tendonitis. For example, using worn-out running shoes with inadequate support can lead to increased stress on your tendons while exercising. It’s important to wear proper footwear and equipment that supports your body’s movements and reduces strain on your tendons.
Tendonitis can be a painful condition that impacts your daily life if left untreated. By understanding what triggers tendonitis and taking preventative measures such as proper warm-up routines, correcting biomechanical issues with the help of a physiotherapist or chiropractor, and using appropriate equipment during physical activity, you can reduce your risk of developing this condition. Remember to listen to your body, rest when needed, and seek professional guidance if you experience persistent pain or discomfort in your tendons. With proper care and attention, you can keep your tendons healthy and strong for years to come.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Sakshi Rupani, BPT, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapy practitioner at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
