Tendon pain is a common condition that affects many people. While it can impact anyone, it is particularly common among athletes and those who participate in repetitive physical activity. Tendons are fibrous tissues that connect your muscles to your bones. Tendon pain is often due to inflammation or damage to your tendons. It is often accompanied by unwanted symptoms, such as stiffness, swelling, and aching. The symptoms can impact your daily life and cause issues with your gait if left untreated. If you experience any of the symptoms, it’s important to understand how to identify your cause of tendon pain.
How to Identify Your Cause of Tendon Pain
Tendon pain can be caused by a variety of things, including overuse, injury, repetitive physical activities, or an underlying medical condition. It’s important to work with a foot and ankle specialist as they can provide you with a proper diagnosis and create a treatment plan that is right for you. Consider the following and inform your podiatrist of any information you gather as this can help them understand the cause of your tendon pain.
Duration and Frequency:
Consider when your symptoms started, whether the symptoms are persistent or intermittent, and when the symptoms worsen. If you experience pain, consider if it is dull or sharp. This information can help your podiatrist understand if the cause of your tendon pain is due to an underlying health issue.
Location of the Pain:
Take note of where your pain is located. Specifically, whether or not it is in the same location or if it changes. Understanding the full picture of your pain (and related symptoms) can help a podiatrist diagnose the issue.
Physical Activities:
Intense physical activities and repetitive physical activities can cause tendon pain. Consider your daily activities, including any new activities that could have led to any new tendon pain. Modifying your activities can reduce your pain, but it is still advisable to see a podiatrist.
Medical History:
Your family history and personal medical history can help determine the cause of your tendon pain. Certain medical conditions can increase your risk for tendon pain, including tendonitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Be sure and share your medical history with your podiatrist so they are aware of your level of risk for tendon-related issues.
Recent Injury:
Injuries can impact your bones and muscles, but they can also impact your tendons. If you have recently injured your foot or ankle, it can cause tendon pain. Avoid using at-home remedies to address the pain and work with a skilled podiatrist after a foot or ankle injury.
Tendon Pain Treatment
Treatment for tendon pain depends on the severity of the condition and if there is an underlying condition associated with it. Mild to moderate tendon pain can be treated using conservative methods, such as rest and ice, medication, or bracing and immobilization. However, more advanced tendon pain may require surgery. Surgery for tendon injuries is highly effective as it can eliminate the unwanted symptoms associated with tendon pain.
You may wonder when you should contact a professional about your tendon pain. Podiatrists recommend contacting a medical professional as soon as possible. The risks associated with untreated tendon pain can impact your foot, ankle, and gait in both the short and long-term. Even minor injuries can get worse over time. If you experience tendon pain it’s critical to work with a professional to determine the cause and if there are any underlying conditions that are responsible for the issue. Contact the team at Jamfeet today for an appointment as they are skilled and experienced in addressing tendon issues.