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Tenosynovitis Causes and Risks:
The synovium is a lining of the protective sheath that covers tendons. Tenosynovitis may involve inflammation of this sheath, as well as the tendon. The cause of the inflammation may be unknown, or it may result from injury, overuse, strain , or excessive exercise . It rarely is caused by infection. The wrists, hands, and shoulder are areas that may be affected, although it may occur at any tendon site. When the wrist is affected, it may cause carpal tunnel syndrome .
Prevention:
- avoid repetitive motion and overuse of an extremity
Symptoms:
- difficulty straightening a joint or extremity
- joint pain and tenderness around the joint ( hip pain , knee pain , ankle pain , foot pain , pain over the small joints of the foot, shoulder pain , elbow pain , wrist pain , hand pain, pain over the small joints of the hand, or pain in any other joint)
- pain on movement of a joint
- hip stiffness
- joint swelling in the affected area
Signs and Tests:
A physical examination shows swelling over the tendon.
Treatment:
The goal of treatment is to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Rest or immobilization of the affected tendons is essential for recovery. This may be achieved by splinting, or a removable brace. The application of heat or cold to the affected area will reduce the pain and inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) relieve pain in addition to reducing inflammation. Local injections of corticosteroids may be useful. Rarely, surgical release of the tendon is required.
If the condition is caused by infection, antibiotics will be prescribed. In some cases, an operation to release the pus around the tendon may be indicated.
After recovery, strengthening exercises involving the muscles surrounding the affected tendon may prevent recurrence of the injury.
Prognosis:
The probable outcome is good with treatment, but recurrences may happen if the condition is caused by overuse.
Complications:
If untreated, permanent restriction of the tendon may result.
Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if there is pain or difficulty straightening a joint or extremity .
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