Tendosynovitis

Tendosynovitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the synovial sheath surrounding a tendon. This condition can lead to pain, swelling, and limited movement in the affected area. It is commonly seen in the hands, wrists, and feet, but can occur in any tendon in the body.

Causes

Tendosynovitis can result from a variety of factors, including:

• Repetitive use or overuse of a tendon, often due to occupational or sports-related activities.
• Direct injury or trauma to the tendon.
• Inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout.
• Infection, particularly in cases of infectious tendosynovitis, which can be caused by bacteria or other pathogens entering the tendon sheath.

Symptoms

Symptoms of tendosynovitis include:

• Pain and tenderness around the affected tendon.
• Swelling in the area surrounding the tendon.
• Warmth and redness over the tendon.
• Difficulty moving the affected limb or joint.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of tendosynovitis typically involves:

• Medical history review and physical examination.
• Imaging tests such as X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI to assess the extent of inflammation and rule out other conditions.
• Blood tests to identify signs of infection or markers of inflammatory diseases.
• In some cases, aspiration of synovial fluid from the tendon sheath for laboratory analysis to detect infection.

Treatment

Treatment options for tendosynovitis may include:

• Rest and immobilization of the affected area to allow the tendon to heal.
• Application of ice packs to reduce swelling.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief and to decrease inflammation.
• Physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve range of motion.
• Corticosteroid injections into the tendon sheath to reduce inflammation.
• Surgical intervention in severe cases or when conservative treatments have failed to provide relief.

Prevention

Preventative measures for tendosynovitis focus on reducing the risk of overuse and injury. These may include:

• Regular stretching and strengthening exercises.
• Ensuring proper technique and equipment use during sports and occupational activities.
• Taking frequent breaks during repetitive tasks.
• Using ergonomic tools and workstations to minimize strain on tendons.

Tendosynovitis Resources
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