Tendonitis

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Table of Contents

Other names for Tendonitis

Tendinitis
Tendon inflammation
Overuse tendon injury

Synopsis of Tendonitis

Tendonitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon—the thick cord of connective tissue that attaches muscle to bone. It commonly results from repetitive strain, overuse, or sudden increase in physical activity and leads to pain, tenderness, and limited movement around the affected joint. Tendonitis is most often seen in the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and heels and can affect anyone from athletes to individuals performing repetitive work tasks. While it is usually an acute, self-limiting condition, chronic cases (called tendinosis) may involve tendon degeneration and require longer recovery.

Types:

  • Rotator cuff tendonitis: Affects the shoulder

  • Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis): Affects the outside of the elbow

  • Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis): Affects the inner elbow

  • Patellar tendonitis: Affects the front of the knee (jumper’s knee)

  • Achilles tendonitis: Affects the back of the ankle

  • De Quervain’s tenosynovitis: Affects tendons on the thumb side of the wrist

Common Causes:

  • Repetitive motion or overuse of a tendon

  • Poor posture or body mechanics

  • Improper athletic technique or training errors

  • Sudden increase in activity level

  • Aging (tendons lose elasticity with age)

  • Tight muscles and lack of stretching

Severity Causes:

  • Continuing repetitive motion without rest

  • Incomplete healing from a previous injury

  • Poor circulation to tendons (especially in older adults)

  • Structural imbalances (e.g., flat feet, unequal leg length)

  • Inflammatory conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)

When to See a Doctor:

  • Persistent pain and stiffness that lasts more than a week

  • Swelling, redness, or warmth around the joint

  • Pain that worsens with movement or activity

  • Weakness or inability to use the affected joint

  • Sudden pain following trauma or popping sensation

Natural remedies for Tendonitis

Rest and activity modification: Avoid repetitive motion and allow the tendon to heal. Use braces or wraps if necessary to reduce strain.

Ice therapy: Apply cold packs to the affected area for 15–20 minutes several times daily to reduce swelling and pain.

Magnesium: Supports muscle relaxation and reduces cramping and tension in surrounding tissues that may aggravate the tendon.

Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory that helps reduce pain and swelling in tendon tissues.

Collagen (bovine): Provides essential amino acids for tendon repair and tissue regeneration, especially useful during recovery phases.

Vitamin C: Crucial for collagen synthesis and tissue healing. Speeds recovery by supporting new connective tissue formation.

Zinc: Supports enzymatic functions involved in tissue repair and immune defense; helpful in healing damaged tendon fibers.

Gentle stretching and strengthening: Once pain subsides, gradual stretching and physical therapy improve flexibility and prevent recurrence.

Additional Help

Free Consults with Dr. Shannyn

Struggling with chronic symptoms? Get real help.
Many health concerns are complex—and what works for one person may not work for another. Talk with Dr. Shannyn, our licensed naturopathic doctor, to get personalized guidance on which herbs, nutrients, or lifestyle shifts could support your healing.

Book a Free Consult →
Compassionate, root-cause care at no cost.

At-Home Lab Testing

Get to the root of what’s really going on.
Symptoms like fatigue, bloating, skin issues, or mood changes often point to deeper imbalances. Our at-home lab tests make it easy to investigate hormone health, gut function, food sensitivities, and more—no clinic visit required.

Explore Lab Testing →
Test from home. Review with an ND.