Joint pain is one of the most common reasons people seek orthopaedic care, and for good reason: it can significantly affect your quality of life. While tendonitis is a frequent cause of joint discomfort, chronic pain can sometimes signal a more complex condition that requires a deeper evaluation. At MidAmerica Orthopaedics, our team is here to help you understand what’s causing your pain and guide you toward effective treatment.

What Is Tendonitis?

Tendonitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon, the thick, fibrous tissue that connects muscle to bone. Common causes include:

• Overuse or repetitive motion, such as typing or sports activities.
• Sudden injury or strain.
• Age-related wear and tear.

Typical symptoms of tendonitis include:

• Pain that worsens with movement.
• Swelling or tenderness near the affected joint.
• A feeling of stiffness or weakness in the joint.

Common types of tendonitis include:

• Tennis Elbow: Pain around the outside of the elbow.
• Golfer’s Elbow: Pain on the inside of the elbow.
• Achilles Tendonitis: Pain at the back of the ankle.
• Rotator Cuff Tendonitis: Pain and limited motion in the shoulder.

When It Might Be Something More

While tendonitis is a common diagnosis, persistent joint pain could be a sign of something more serious, such as:

• Arthritis: Inflammatory or degenerative conditions affecting the joints, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion joints.
• Tendon Tears: Partial or complete ruptures of tendons that may require surgical intervention.
• Ligament Injuries: Sprains or tears that destabilize the joint.
• Cartilage Damage: Issues such as meniscal tears or chondromalacia, which affect the smooth tissues cushioning your joints.

Symptoms that warrant further investigation include:

• Pain that doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter medications.
• Swelling, redness, or warmth around the joint.
• Grinding or locking sensations in the joint.
• Significant weakness or limited range of motion.
• Night pain that disrupts sleep or worsens without activity.

Diagnosing the Cause of Your Pain

At MidAmerica Orthopaedics, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing joint pain at our Total Joint Clinic. Our advanced diagnostic tools, including on-site imaging like X-rays and MRIs, allow us to pinpoint the exact cause of your discomfort. From there, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Our specialists will also take a detailed medical history and perform a thorough physical exam to assess the affected joint’s mobility, strength, and stability. In some cases, additional tests such as ultrasound or lab work may be recommended to rule out infections or systemic conditions like gout or rheumatoid arthritis.

Treatment Options for Chronic Joint Pain

Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:

• Physical Therapy: To improve strength, flexibility, and joint function. Our licensed therapists work with you one-on-one to ensure safe and effective recovery.
• Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroid injections, or other targeted therapies to manage pain and reduce inflammation.
• Minimally Invasive Procedures: Such as arthroscopic surgery for tendon or ligament repairs, or joint aspiration to alleviate swelling.
• Regenerative Medicine: Cutting-edge treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections that promote natural healing in damaged tissues.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Changes to your daily routine to prevent further strain, such as ergonomic adjustments at work or proper warm-up techniques for physical activity.
• Surgical Intervention: In rare cases, when conservative treatments fail, surgery may be recommended to address underlying structural issues.

Preventing Chronic Joint Pain

Prevention is just as important as treatment. To keep your joints healthy and pain-free:

• Stay Active: Regular low-impact exercises, like swimming or cycling, help maintain joint mobility and strength.
• Practice Good Posture: Whether sitting at a desk or lifting heavy objects, proper posture minimizes unnecessary strain.
• Listen to Your Body: Avoid repetitive motions that cause discomfort, and take breaks during activities to rest your joints.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts additional pressure on your joints, especially in the knees and hips.

When to See a Specialist

If you’re experiencing chronic joint pain that interferes with your daily activities, it’s time to seek professional care. Early intervention can prevent further damage and help you get back to living pain-free. Ignoring persistent pain may lead to more severe issues, such as joint instability, chronic inflammation, or even permanent damage to the affected structures.

Take the Next Step

At MidAmerica Orthopaedics, we specialize in diagnosing and treating joint pain, whether it’s caused by tendonitis or a more complex condition. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and let our team help you find relief. Our goal is to provide comprehensive care that not only addresses your symptoms but also improves your overall quality of life.