The Musculoskeletal System

Lesson 1: Disease and Disorders of the Musculoskeletal System
Section III: Specific Musculoskeletal Diseases

1-12

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1-12. TENDINITIS/TENOSYNOVITIS

These conditions are much the same. inflammation of the lining of the tendon sheath and the enclosed tendon surrounding certain joints. Wrists, shoulders. elbows (tennis elbow), finger joints (trigger finger), ankles, and associated tendons are affected.

a. Signs/Symptoms of Tendinitis/ Tenosynovitis. Included are:

(1) Swelling due to fluid accumulation.

 

(2) Fluid accumulation in the affected tendon sheaths.

 

(3) Inflammation of the tendons.

 

(4) Irregular contours of the tendons. Friction rubs.

 

(5) Pain on movement.

b. Treatment of Tendinitis. The same treatment is advised as for bursitis in paragraph 1-11d.

c. Treatment for Tenosynovitis (Tennis Elbow). The goal is to relieve pain.

(1) By physician's orders, these medications may be given:

(a) Medications such as corticosteriods can be given.

 

(b) Aspirin or indomethacin for pain.

(2) Apply an immobilizing splint from the distal forearm to the elbow. (In two to three weeks, this treatment usually relieves pain.)

 

(3) Physical therapy such as manipulation and massage.

 

(4) Use a "tennis elbow strap" to relieve strain on the affected forearm muscles/tendons. Wrap the strap snugly around the forearm.

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