What is Tendonitis?
Tendonitis is inflammation or irritation of a tendon — any one of the thick fibrous cords that attach muscles to bone. The condition, which causes pain and tenderness just outside a joint, is most common around your shoulders, elbows and knees. But tendonitis can also occur in your hips, heels and wrists.

Some common names for tendonitis are tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, pitcher's shoulder, swimmer's shoulder and jumper's knee.

If tendonitis is severe and leads to the rupture of a tendon, you may need surgical repair. But many times, rest and medications to reduce the pain and inflammation of tendonitis may be the only treatments you need. You can also take preventive measures to reduce your chance of developing tendonitis or to keep tendonitis from affecting your normal range of motion in joints such as your shoulder.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Tendonitis?
Tendonitis produces the following signs and symptoms near a joint that is aggravated by movement:

• Pain
• Tenderness
• Mild swelling, in some cases

How Do I Prevent Tendonitis?

To reduce your chance of developing tendonitis, follow these suggestions:

• Ease up. Avoid activities that place excessive stress on your tendons, especially for prolonged periods. For example, long or intense periods of uphill running can contribute to Achilles tendonitis. If you notice pain during a particular exercise, stop and rest.
• Mix it up. If one exercise or activity causes you a particular, persistent pain, try something else. Cross-training can help you mix up an impact-loading exercise, such as running, with lower impact exercise, such as biking or swimming.
• Improve your technique. If your technique in an activity or exercise is flawed, you could be setting yourself up for problems with your tendons. Consider taking lessons or getting professional instructions when starting a new sport or using exercise equipment.
• Stretch first. Before you exercise, take time to stretch in order to maximize the range of motion of your joints. This can help to minimize repetitive microtrauma on tight tissues.
• Use proper foot wear and orthotics. Using the right equipment when you walk, run, or stand on your feet will help to prevent tendonitis.