Tendonitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options - Family Medicine

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Tendonitis is a common condition that occurs when a tendon, which connects muscle to bone, becomes inflamed or irritated. This often results from repetitive motion or overuse, particularly in activities that require a lot of wrist or hand movement, such as playing sports, typing, or manual labor. Given your description of pain in your thumb and palm, it sounds like you may be experiencing symptoms consistent with tendonitis in the wrist or thumb area, possibly De Quervain's tenosynovitis, which affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist.


Symptoms of Tendonitis
The primary symptoms of tendonitis include:
- Pain and tenderness in the affected area, which may worsen with movement or activity.

- Swelling and inflammation around the tendon.

- Stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

- A sensation of grating or snapping when moving the affected tendon.

In your case, the pain you experience when writing or applying pressure suggests that the tendons in your thumb or wrist may be inflamed. The fact that you also mention abdominal pain raises concern, as it may indicate a separate issue that needs to be addressed.


Diagnosis
To diagnose tendonitis, a healthcare provider will typically perform a physical examination, assessing the range of motion and tenderness in the affected area. They may also ask about your medical history and any activities that could have contributed to the condition. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI may be ordered to rule out other conditions or to assess the extent of the inflammation.


Treatment Options
Treatment for tendonitis usually begins with conservative measures:
1. Rest: Avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain is crucial. This may involve taking a break from sports or repetitive tasks.

2. Ice: Applying ice packs to the affected area can help reduce swelling and pain. It’s generally recommended to ice the area for 15-20 minutes several times a day.

3. Compression: Using a compression bandage can help minimize swelling.

4. Elevation: Keeping the affected hand elevated can also assist in reducing swelling.

5. Over-the-counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

If conservative treatments do not provide relief, a healthcare provider may recommend physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the tendon and improve flexibility. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be considered to reduce inflammation.


When to Seek Further Care
Given your mention of abdominal pain, it is essential to address that concern separately. Abdominal pain can be indicative of various conditions, ranging from gastrointestinal issues to more serious organ-related problems. If the abdominal pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider, preferably a gastroenterologist, to evaluate your symptoms.


Conclusion
In summary, tendonitis is a treatable condition that typically responds well to conservative management. However, the abdominal pain you are experiencing warrants further investigation. It is advisable to see a healthcare provider who can assess both your hand and abdominal symptoms comprehensively. Depending on the findings, they may refer you to a specialist, such as an orthopedic surgeon for the tendonitis or a gastroenterologist for the abdominal concerns. Always prioritize your health and seek medical attention when symptoms persist or worsen.