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Tendons also called sinews are the ropes of the body that connect bones to the muscles. Tendons, thus, play a vital role in normal activities of the body such as walking, running, jumping, rolling etc. that needs muscles to connect to the bones. What are tendons? They are flexible tissues, made up of cells called as tenocytes. Tendons are strong flexible tissues, but overuse of these tissues or any injury can harm its strength and cause inflammation to it. Overuse of tendons can cause tears in its collagen fibers. Once tendons get damaged, it may not heal easily and demand medical attention. Tendonitis is a condition described as inflammation of the tendons. As a treatment for tendonitis, anti-inflammatory drugs are administered in the patient, to relieve inflammation. In addition, rest is prescribed to the person, who has suffered tendonitis. Tendonitis Treatment As discussed above tendonitis can be difficult to heal automatically over a period of time. Although, medical intervention is helpful, but it alone cannot be sufficient. Depending upon the intensity of inflammation, tendonitis episode will last for either a few days or for weeks/months. Following are a few treatment techniques for tendonitis that can be used in combination with self care tips that lead to strengthen ligaments. Rest Rest is the best treatment for tendon related injuries and tendonitis. The inflammation goes off soon with rest. If complete rest is not possible, you may at least stop doing the activity that caused tendonitis. Rest the affected tendons. Resting time will be relative to the damage caused, the more the damage more rest will be required. Also, using shin or calf supports, strapping tapes or bandages may help reduce the movement of tendons and ease healing process. Painkillers Taking painkillers can be an instant treatment to the pain caused due to tendonitis. Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) that can be taken to relieve pain. However, these are good for short-term pain relief and should not be taken for too long You can also apply painkiller gel or spray on the affected area. Cold Packs Inflammation goes off with cold packs. Applying ice packs over the inflamed areas can relieve pain as well as inflammation. Do not apply ice directly on the affected area, as it can cause cold burn. Instead, wrap some ice cubes in a towel and apply it on the inflamed area. Repeat this thrice a day. Physiotherapy If you are suffering from severe tendonitis or a tendon injury, above treating options can relieve pain, but cannot really strengthen the tendon again. In such a case, seek a physiotherapist to prescribe the required physio and exercises to give a long term effect. Surgery This is the last resort for a few patients with prolonged tendonitis. Tendons are the connecting tissues connecting the bones to the muscles. These tissues may undergo wear and tear due to it overuse and this may cause inflammation. Inflammation of tendons is termed as tendonitis and it is a common medical syndrome. No medical intervention is usually required for tendonitis and it may go with rest and painkillers. In some rare and severe cases, surgery is required for tendonitis.
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