Extensor tendonitis involves inflammation of the extensor tendons. This condition primarily arises from repetitive motions or chronic overuse. These activities lead to irritation and swelling within the tendon structure.
Understanding Extensor Tendonitis
Extensor tendons are located on the back of the hands and across the top of the feet. In the hands, these tendons facilitate the straightening of fingers and wrist extension. On the feet, they enable toe lifting and ankle extension, essential for walking and balance.
This condition is often linked to activities involving continuous or forceful tendon use. Occupations requiring prolonged standing, such as retail or manufacturing roles, can stress foot extensor tendons. Hobbies like gardening, scrubbing, woodworking, or painting involve repetitive hand and wrist movements that can strain hand extensor tendons.
Sports injuries are another common contributor, especially in activities with repetitive wrist or ankle movements. Beyond activity-related causes, footwear can affect the onset of foot extensor tendonitis. Poorly fitting shoes, especially those that are overly tight across the top of the foot, can create constant pressure and friction, leading to irritation and inflammation.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Individuals experiencing extensor tendonitis report pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected area. This discomfort often intensifies with continued use of the hand or foot. The pain might be described as a dull ache or a sharp sensation, particularly during movement.
When the condition affects the foot, pain is felt on the top of the foot. This pain can make walking difficult, especially when pushing off or lifting the toes during the gait cycle. Simple actions like wearing shoes can become uncomfortable due to pressure on the swollen area.
For extensor tendonitis in the hand, symptoms include localized pain and stiffness, which may extend to the wrist. Individuals may also report a noticeable decrease in grip strength or discomfort when attempting to straighten their fingers. Mild numbness or tingling sensations can also occur, particularly if inflammation affects nearby nerves.
Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches
Diagnosing extensor tendonitis begins with a thorough physical examination. During this exam, the doctor will assess the affected area for tenderness, swelling, and range of motion. They may also ask the patient to perform specific movements to pinpoint the source of pain.
Imaging tests may be used to rule out other issues, such as fractures or arthritis, and to assess tendon involvement. X-rays can show bone abnormalities, while ultrasounds can visualize soft tissues like tendons, revealing inflammation or minor tears. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides even more detailed images of tendons and surrounding structures, helping to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment strategies.
Treatment usually begins with conservative methods, often following the RICE protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Resting the affected limb reduces stress, ice helps decrease swelling and pain, compression provides support, and elevation aids fluid reduction. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are often recommended to manage pain and inflammation.
If symptoms persist, physical therapy can be beneficial, involving exercises to strengthen surrounding muscles and improve flexibility. Corticosteroid injections may be considered to reduce localized inflammation, providing temporary relief. Surgical intervention is rarely necessary but might be an option in severe, chronic cases where other treatments have failed, especially if there is a risk of tendon rupture.
Preventing Recurrence
Preventing extensor tendonitis involves adopting mindful habits during daily activities and exercise. Proper warm-up routines before engaging in physical activities prepare the tendons for exertion, increasing flexibility and reducing injury risk. Following exercise, a cool-down period with gentle stretching helps maintain tendon elasticity.
Wearing correctly fitting and supportive footwear is important for preventing foot extensor tendonitis. Shoes that are too tight or lack cushioning can stress the foot tendons. It is also advisable to avoid pushing through pain during activities, as this can worsen inflammation and lead to more severe injury. Taking regular breaks during repetitive tasks, whether at work or during hobbies, allows tendons to rest and recover, minimizing cumulative strain.