Tendonitis and Tenosynovitis
Been reading up on this thought it maybe of some use here?
Tendonitis and Tenosynovitis
--An inflammation of the tendon (tendonitis) and lining of the tendon sheath (tenosynovitis) characterized by pain on movement of the associated joint.
Causes and Incidence The etiology is often unknown, but individuals are thought to be more susceptible as degenerative changes occur in the vascularity of the tendons, causing a slower response to repetitive microtrauma. Repetitive movements, strain, or excessive, unaccustomed exercise may be causes. Underlying systemic disease (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, gout, sclerosis, and disseminated gonococcal infections) may also be a cause. Middle-aged and older adults and athletes or individuals with occupations requiring repetitive motion are at greatest risk.
Disease Process Repetitive microtrauma damages the fibers in the common extensor tendon of the involved joint, causing extravasations of tissue fluid and setting up an inflammatory process. Over time, healing builds fibrous, inelastic tissue and scarring, which often bind the tendon and sheath together, limiting joint motion.
Symptoms The involved tendons usually show visible swelling; the joint may be tender and hot to the touch; motion of the joint causes pain.
Potential Complications Rupture of the tendon is a possible complication.
Diagnostic Tests The diagnosis is based on a history of repetitive motion or underlying disease and physical examination of the joint. Radiology may show calcium deposits in the tendon or tendon sheath.
Treatments
Surgery
Removal of calcium deposits in cases unresponsive to other treatment; release of fibroosseous tunnels associated with de Quervain's disease; tenosynovectomy for chronic inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis
Drugs
Oral or locally injected corticosteroids to relieve inflammation; analgesics/anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve pain
General
Moist heat compresses to joint; rest of joint with controlled progressive exercise program
Tendon , one of many white, glistening fibrous bands of tissue that attach muscle to bone. Except at points of attachment, tendons are tubular shaped in delicate fibroblastic connective tissue. Larger tendons have a thin inner dividing wall (septum), a few blood vessels, and specialized stereognostic nerves. Tendons are extremely strong and flexible, inelastic, and occur in various lengths and thickness.
Corticosteroid /kor'tikostir'oid/, any one of the hormones made in the outer layer of the adrenal gland (adrenal cortex). They influence or control key functions of the body, as making carbohydrates and proteins, working of the heart and lung systems, and functions of the muscles, kidneys, and other organs. The release of these hormones increases during stress, especially in anxiety and severe injury. Too much of these hormones in the body is linked with various disorders, as Cushing's syndrome. The skeletal muscles need the correct amount of corticosteroids to work normally. Corticosteroids can also be given to patients to help certain disorders, as swelling or failure of the glands to make enough for the body
Excerpted from Mosby's Medical Encyclopedia. Copyright (c) 1994-5, 1996, 1997 The Learning Company Inc. All Rights Reserved