Knee Tendonitis

(The most common knee injury)

What Is a Tendon?

A tendon is nothing other than muscle. It differs, however, from the normally softer and elastic muscle by changing consistency and shape near the bone. It becomes solider and firmer, (even “stiff”), and forms a much more narrow cord, which fastens itself to the bone and strengthens and stabilizes the whole knee area.

What Is the Purpose of the Tendon?

A tendon’s purpose is to move and protect the bone. So when the brain signals action is on the horizon, the muscle follows the command and contracts. This seemingly simple maneuver provides power for movement and strength for the task.

Causes of Tendon Injury

The meniscus tendon, which is dense, rigid, and attached to the bone, is at risk for tearing when trauma occurs because of its inflexibility and lack of resiliency. When sudden pressure jolts it, it snaps. When inflammation follows the tear, it is called tendonitis. Predisposing conditions to tendonitis are:

Diabetes
Aging and/or
Arthritis

Immediate causes are:

Strenuous exercise without first conditioning the muscle
Excessive use of the muscle
Injury sustained in sports or other activities
Trauma after sudden stopping in action, a twisting movement, or a hard landing from a jump or fall
Excessive repetitive action

Drugs have also been known to weaken the tendon, setting it up for injury.

Symptoms of Tendonitis

A small tendon tear which results in inflammation produces immediate pain, tenderness and swelling; the skin is often warm and red. The pain worsens with movement and is worse at night.

Treatment for Tendonitis

The objective of treatment is to relax the tendon, thereby reducing the inflammation and resulting pain, and to restore function, with full range of motion of the muscle and tendon. The methods include:

Cold compress
Elevation of the knee
Exercise to strengthen and to make the tendon more flexible and to break down scar tissue

Other forms of treatment that help to reduce the inflammation and aid in healing include:

Topical, pain-relieving ointments
Cortisone injections
Ultrasound therapy to increase circulation to the area and soften scar tissue

Whatever the chosen method of treatment, a compressive knee brace sometimes brings relief and support during movement until healing has occurred.

Related Products:

Knee Braces

Topical Pain Relieving Gels

Knee Ice Packs

Knee Exercisers

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