A tendon is the thick, fibrous cord that joins muscle to bone and allows joints to move. When a tendon becomes inflamed, it's called tendonitis. This can occur from overuse, injury, or infection. It often affects the shoulders, forearm, wrist, hands, or feet. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and soreness to the touch. Moving the joint increases the pain.
It takes 4 to 6 weeks or more for tendonitis to heal. It's treated by preventing motion of the tendon, occasionally with a splint or brace, using ice or heat, and the use of anti-inflammatory medicine.
Home care
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Some people find relief with ice packs. To make an ice pack, put ice cubes in a plastic bag that seals at the top. Wrap the bag in a thin towel or cloth before using. Don't put ice or an ice pack directly on the skin.
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Other people get better relief with heat. This can include a hot shower, hot bath, or a moist towel warmed in a microwave. Try each and use the method that feels best for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day.
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Rest the inflamed joint and protect it from movement.
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You may use over-the-counter ibuprofen or naproxen to treat pain and inflammation, unless another medicine was prescribed. If you can't take these medicines, acetaminophen may help with the pain. But it doesn't treat inflammation. If you have chronic liver or kidney disease, have ever had a stomach ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding, or take blood thinners, talk with your health care provider before using these medicines.
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As your symptoms improve, begin gradual motion at the affected joint.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your health care provider if you're not improving after 5 to 7 days of treatment.
When to get medical advice
Contact your health care provider right away if you have:
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Redness over the painful area.
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More pain or swelling at the joint.
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A fever lasting 24 to 48 hours or as advised by your provider.
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Chills.
Online Medical Reviewer: L Renee Watson MSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C
Online Medical Reviewer: Thomas N Joseph MD
Date Last Reviewed: 02/01/2025
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
