Tendonitis | Symptoms & Causes
What are the symptoms of tendonitis?
The main symptom of tendonitis is pain that gets worse during activity. The pain may be sharp and sudden, or it may be an ache that persists over time.
Other symptoms include:
- Swelling
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion
What causes tendonitis?
Tendonitis is caused by repetitive activities that strain a tendon, for instance, pitching in baseball, landing in figure skating, running, and swimming.
Children are at greater risk of tendonitis while going through growth spurts. Other things that increase athletes’ risk of tendonitis include:
- Sudden increase in training time intensity
- Not getting enough rest between workouts
- Improper technique
- Poorly fitting or non-supportive shoes or boots
Tendonitis | Diagnosis & Treatments
How is tendonitis treated?
Most cases of tendonitis can be treated with self-care.
- Time off from activities that cause tendonitis pain
- Placing ice wrapped in a towel to the sore area for 15 minutes at a time
- Anti-inflammatory medication, such as Motrin, Advil, or Aleve
- Physical therapy
Is it possible to prevent tendonitis?
Athletes can reduce their risk of tendonitis by:
- Warming up before any practice or competition
- Taking time to build up stamina at the start of each season
- Practicing proper technique to reduce tendon strain
- Giving muscles and tendons time to recover between practices
How we care for tendon injuries at Boston Children’s Hospital
As the largest and most experienced pediatric and young adult sports medicine practice in the country, Boston Children's Sports Medicine Division provides expert care so young athletes can remain active in the sports they love.
The Micheli Center for Sports Injury Prevention, part of the Sports Medicine Division, is dedicated to the prevention of sports injuries. Our practical strategies help young athletes reduce their risk of injury while enhancing their sports performance. Our rehabilitation and strength training programs help injured athletes return to play stronger and healthier.
