Extensor tendonitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the extensor tendons, which are located on the back of the hand and the top of the foot. This inflammation can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected area. Understanding the various treatment approaches is important for managing this condition effectively.
Initial Management at Home
Initial management begins with self-care. Rest is a primary recommendation, involving avoidance of activities that worsen the pain to allow the inflamed tendon to heal. Applying ice to the affected area helps reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Apply ice for about 15-20 minutes, several times a day, with a cloth barrier between the ice and skin.
Compression using elastic bandages or wraps can help reduce swelling and provide support to the affected area. Additionally, elevating the hand or foot above heart level can further minimize swelling. Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can also help manage pain and inflammation. Activity modification, which involves adjusting daily tasks to reduce strain on the tendons, is also important for early symptom management.
Professional Medical Treatments
If home treatments are insufficient or symptoms worsen, seek professional medical attention. A healthcare provider diagnoses extensor tendonitis through physical examination, assessing for inflammation signs like redness, swelling, or tenderness. Imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasounds may be used to rule out other conditions or to get a clearer view of the tendons.
Physical therapy aids recovery, with therapists guiding exercises and stretches to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility. They may also employ modalities like ultrasound or iontophoresis to aid healing. For more persistent pain, prescription-strength NSAIDs or muscle relaxants might be prescribed. Corticosteroid injections can provide temporary pain relief by reducing inflammation, though they are generally not a first-line treatment due to potential side effects. In some cases, splinting or bracing the affected area can help support the tendon and reduce strain, promoting healing.
Surgical Considerations
Surgery for extensor tendonitis is considered only when conservative treatments fail. It is reserved for severe cases with significant tendon damage, persistent symptoms, or impact on quality of life. Procedures may involve debridement, which is the removal of inflamed tissue, or in some instances, repairing or reconstructing the tendon.
While surgery aims to alleviate persistent symptoms, recovery involves a period of rehabilitation. The specific outcomes and recovery timeline depend on the type of procedure performed and the individual’s overall health. Surgical intervention is a less common approach, but it can be a necessary step for individuals who do not respond to other forms of treatment.
Long-Term Recovery and Prevention
Long-term recovery involves a gradual return to activity to avoid re-injury. Increase intensity and duration of activities slowly, allowing tendons to adapt and strengthen. Continuing with prescribed exercises and stretches helps maintain flexibility and muscle strength, which supports tendon health.
Ergonomic adjustments, like proper workstation setup or supportive footwear, reduce extensor tendon strain. Warm-up routines before physical activity and cool-down stretches afterward prepare muscles and tendons, minimizing injury risk. Listening to the body and recognizing early signs of discomfort or flare-ups is important for prompt intervention. Consistency in self-care and adherence to professional guidance are also important for preventing recurrence.