Tendinitis is a condition that often makes the tendons in your body inflamed and painful. Your tendons connect the muscles to bones, and if they become overused through strenuous activities or due to an accident, you may need treatment. And treating your condition without the use of medications that may cause side effects is a possible solution.
If home remedies and rest does not seem to help, or if you are tired of relying on medication, why not consult a chiropractor who may be able to ease your discomfort? Here is what you need to do to begin this alternative treatment option.
Take the First Steps
Once you have decided to try a drug-free approach to treat your tendinitis, schedule an appointment with your chiropractor. However, before you do so, you might want to check your health plan to note whether your insurance covers chiropractic care. If you are covered through your employer, speak with human resources.
Attend the Initial Visit and Get an Evaluation
Your chiropractor will most likely begin with a medical evaluation. He or she will probably need to see your medical records and be informed of any medical conditions or medications you currently take. Don't hold anything back.
An evaluation of your condition will help your provider access the situation in order to initiate a treatment plan and options. You may be asked a series of questions about your tendinitis, like what area the pain is generally located. Tendinitis often occurs in a wrist, shoulder, knee, ankle, or other location.
You may be asked to describe the pain you are experiencing. For instance, is it a dull or sharp pain, and do you experience a burning or tingling sensation? Also, inform your chiropractor of any activities that seem to worsen your pain.
Your physical examination will typically include the usual procedures, such as taking your blood pressure and heart rate. You may also be tested for range of motion and strength in the affected area. The specialist may feel an x-ray will be helpful for further evaluation, although this is not always necessary.
Create a Chiropractic Treatment Plan
Once your provider accesses your condition, a treatment plan will be put into action. Treatment options may include joint manipulation (if joints are determined to be misaligned), electrical stimulation, or strengthening exercises.
With electrical muscle stimulation, electrodes will be applied to the area of pain, and the electrodes connect to a wire that attaches to a device. You may experience a tingle during treatment. The goal is to increase blood flow to the affected area, reduce pain and inflammation, and help to support healing to the tendons and muscles.
Once the inflammation and pain begins to decrease after treatment sessions, you may be instructed to perform strengthening exercises. Your chiropractor will typically show you the correct way to perform the exercises, which can be followed up at home.
Physical therapy may also be part of your treatment plan, and this may include weekly sessions that last for a few weeks or longer.
Prevent Future Flare-Ups
Your chiropractor may also have suggestions for preventing future flare-ups of tendinitis. If you work on a computer for long periods at a time, you may need to adjust your posture and avoid slouching. Proper body mechanics and ergonomics are important if you are to avoid future pain.
When you participate in sports that aggravate your condition, you may be advised to warm up properly and perform stretches beforehand.
If you have further questions or concerns regarding your condition or treatment options, speak with
one of our chiropractors. We’ll help you start your recovery process now and get the relief you need to function to your fullest.