Tendinitis – Understanding Tendon Inflammation in the Lower Arm
Overview
Tendinitis (or tendonitis) refers to the inflammation or irritation of a tendon — the thick cord that connects muscle to bone. In the lower arm, tendinitis commonly affects the wrist and elbow tendons due to repetitive movement, overuse, or strain. It can lead to persistent pain, stiffness, and weakness that limits everyday tasks such as gripping, lifting, or typing.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we help patients across Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas find relief from tendon pain through advanced, evidence-based treatments that target the source of inflammation and promote long-term healing.
What Causes Lower Arm Tendinitis
Tendons are designed to withstand tension, but when they’re repeatedly overloaded, tiny micro-tears form. Without rest or proper recovery, these small injuries accumulate, causing inflammation and degeneration known as tendinopathy.
Common causes and risk factors include:
- Repetitive wrist, hand, or forearm motion (typing, lifting, or tool use)
- Poor ergonomics at workstations
- Improper lifting or athletic form
- Aging and decreased tendon elasticity
- Chronic muscle tightness or imbalance
- Previous injuries or scar tissue buildup
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Occupations involving manual labor, assembly, or desk work are at higher risk — as are athletes, musicians, and fitness enthusiasts who train without adequate rest.
Symptoms
Tendinitis can develop gradually or appear suddenly after strenuous activity.
Typical symptoms include:
- Localized pain or tenderness along the affected tendon
- Swelling or warmth around the tendon
- Pain that worsens with movement or gripping
- A feeling of stiffness, especially in the morning
- Weakness or fatigue in the forearm
- A creaking or crackling sensation (crepitus) with motion
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Ignoring early signs can lead to chronic tendinopathy, where the tendon tissue begins to degenerate rather than heal.
Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis is key to tailoring treatment and preventing recurrence.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, Dr. Robert L. Burke, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, conducts a detailed assessment that may include:
- Physical examination: Checking tenderness, range of motion, and resistance pain.
- Functional testing: Identifying specific tendons involved (such as the flexor or extensor tendons).
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Imaging:
- X-rays to rule out bone conditions.
- Ultrasound or MRI to visualize inflammation or tendon micro-tears.
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This approach ensures accurate diagnosis and helps rule out other causes of pain, such as ligament sprains or nerve entrapment.
Treatment Options at Dr. Burke Orthopedics
Non-Surgical Treatments
Most patients recover successfully with conservative care.
Dr. Burke creates a personalized plan based on tendon location, activity level, and pain severity.
Treatment options include:
- Rest and activity modification: Reducing repetitive strain.
- Ice and compression: To control swelling and promote blood flow.
- Anti-inflammatory medication: To reduce pain and inflammation.
- Bracing or taping: Supports tendon alignment during activity.
- Ergonomic training: Adjusting posture and wrist mechanics to prevent recurrence.
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- Physical Therapy: Stretching, strengthening, and eccentric loading exercises to rebuild tendon resilience.
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- PRP Therapy: Platelet-rich plasma injections that deliver concentrated healing factors directly to the damaged tendon.
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Surgical Treatments
Surgery is reserved for severe cases involving chronic degeneration or partial tendon tears that do not respond to conservative care.
Procedures may include tendon debridement (removing damaged tissue) or tendon repair (reattaching torn fibers) using minimally invasive techniques.
Recovery and Prevention
Recovery timeline:
- Non-surgical care: 4–6 weeks
- Surgical recovery: 3–6 months, with progressive rehabilitation
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Preventive measures:
- Warm up before repetitive activities.
- Stretch wrists and forearms regularly.
- Maintain proper posture during work or sports.
- Take breaks to avoid overuse.
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By addressing underlying biomechanical causes, Dr. Burke helps patients maintain long-term tendon health and functional independence.
When to Seek Medical Care
You should schedule an evaluation at Dr. Burke Orthopedics if:
- Pain persists beyond two weeks or limits activity.
- Swelling or warmth develops around the tendon.
- You notice weakness, numbness, or recurring strain.
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Early diagnosis and treatment prevent chronic degeneration and restore full strength faster.
Serving Our Community
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we proudly serve Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas, offering comprehensive care for tendon and soft-tissue conditions.
Our mission is to restore your mobility and confidence through personalized, patient-centered orthopedic care backed by decades of surgical experience.
