Tenosynovitis is the inflammation of the protective sheath around a tendon, which may cause pain with movement.
Tenosynovitis Treatment
What Is Tenosynovitis?
Tenosynovitis is broadly defined as the inflammation of a tendon and its respective synovial sheath. It is a painful condition most commonly affecting the hands, wrists and feet. The synovial sheath is to reduce friction between the tendon and their surrounding structures. When this becomes inflamed it can become painful to be able to move your joins like you normally can.
Common areas of tenosynovitis include:
- Achilles tenosynovitis (heel)
- Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow)
- Medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow)
- Supraspinatus tenosynovitis (top of the shoulder)
- DeQuervain’s tenosynovitis (over the thumb)
In addition to this, you may also experience stenosing tenosynovitis; this is a specific kind of tenosynovitis. Stenosis is the narrowing or constriction of the passage that the tendon passes through due to the inflammation of the tendon. One of the most common types of stenosing tenosynovitis is trigger finger.
What Are The Causes?
- Autoimmune diseases – e.g. Rheumatoid arthritis, gout, diabetes
- Overuse
- Infections
- Trauma
What Are The Symptoms?
- Pain
- Swelling at a joint
- Difficulty moving a part of your body like you usually can
- Pain when moving a part of your body
- Discoloration in a straight line along a tendon
Treatment For Tenosynovitis
- Education on self management
- Soft Tissue Release
- Strengthening exercises – usually isometrics to start
- ROM exercises
- Taping
- TECAR therapy
- Shockwave therapy
What Can I Do At Home?
- Ice
- Rest
- NSAIDs may be helpful
How to book an appointment?
If you think you’re suffering from this condition, or you’re looking for a ‘physiotherapist near me’, all you need to do is just give us a call on 0410 559 856 and request an initial appointment. Please let our friendly reception staff know the background and severity of your condition.
Our experienced physios may also refer you to get scans in some severe cases to better understand your needs. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your needs to aid in your pain relief and recovery.
You can visit our FAQs for more information about appointments at Vitalis Physiotherapy.