Diagnosis methods for tenosynovitis

Written by Guan Jing Tao
Orthopedics
Updated on April 14, 2025
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Diagnosis relies on the doctor's physical examination, as well as the patient having localized pain and restricted movement, with definite tender points. Moreover, if local symptoms are atypical, an X-ray can be performed to rule out other conditions such as osteoarthritis, or bone hyperplasia, allowing for a localized diagnosis. In addition, localized symptomatic treatment can be administered, and if there is improvement, it can indirectly confirm the diagnosis of tendinitis. Typically, when there is localized pain with significant movement restriction, and apparent pain and hyperplasia at the tendon's central axis, a clear diagnosis can be made.

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Written by Guan Jing Tao
Orthopedics
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How to reduce inflammation in tendinitis

To reduce inflammation in tendinitis, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should be used rather than antibacterial drugs such as cephalosporins, as the two are entirely different. In addition to using NSAIDs, it is also recommended to combine this with local physical therapy, such as electrotherapy, physiotherapy, acupuncture, etc. Topical NSAIDs can be applied locally and used in conjunction with physical therapy. For initial occurrences of tendinitis, these treatments can also provide good relief and improve symptoms of pain. However, for recurrent, stubborn tendinitis, the effectiveness of oral and topical medications in improving symptoms is limited. If necessary, local pain point block treatments can be performed, which can also result in good therapeutic effects. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Na Hong Wei
Orthopedics
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How to treat tenosynovitis?

In clinical practice, the treatment of stenosing tenosynovitis is divided into three stages. The first stage involves general treatments, including early immobilization, followed by localized heat therapy, microwave therapy, and shock wave therapy, as well as the topical application of anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications. If there is no improvement after one week of conservative treatment, the second stage is initiated. The second stage involves an injection treatment, which is quite effective for this type of tenosynovitis in clinical practice. Generally, one or two injections can significantly alleviate symptoms, and some people may even fully recover. However, if after three injections the symptoms do not improve or worsen, further injections should be avoided, as this method is not beneficial for you, and you would then proceed to the third stage. The third stage involves surgical treatment. There are two types of surgical treatments: one involves a minor procedure using a small needle knife in traditional Chinese medicine, and the other involves conventional surgery. However, for radial styloid stenosing tenosynovitis, surgery is generally recommended due to the proximity of the radial nerve, which could be at risk of damage.

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Written by Lv Yao
Orthopedics
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How should tenosynovitis be treated?

Tendon sheath inflammation refers to chronic aseptic inflammation caused by excessive and frequent flexing and extending motions during labor, where the tendon is subjected to repeated friction and compression within the fibrous tunnel of the tendon sheath. This results in local exudation, swelling, and fibrosis, leading to a narrowing of the sheath canal and hindering normal tendon movements. For mild symptoms of tendon sheath inflammation, treatment can include rest, immobilization, physical therapy, and topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications, as well as anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving plasters. If symptoms do not improve, local injection therapy may be employed. If symptoms persist and conservative treatment is ineffective, surgical removal of the narrowed tendon sheath may be necessary. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Lv Yao
Orthopedics
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Is tenosynovitis easy to treat?

Tendon sheath inflammation refers to the sterile inflammation of the tendon sheath surrounding a tendon, caused by repetitive activity and friction. This condition can impact tendon movement. In cases of early symptoms, conservative treatment such as rest and the topical application of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be used to alleviate symptoms. However, if the symptoms are severe and lead to constrictive tendonitis, where the movement of the tendon sheath is obstructed and there is a snapping sensation during movement, surgery may be necessary to remove the constricted tendon sheath and relieve symptoms.

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Written by Cheng Bin
Orthopedics
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How is tenosynovitis treated?

There are various treatment methods for tenosynovitis, mainly based on the severity of the patient's condition. If the tenosynovitis is very severe, such as the occurrence of triggering or local limb flexion and extension limitations, it is necessary to actively pursue surgical treatment. The surgery can be performed under local anesthesia, typically involving either cutting open the tendon sheath or partially removing it. Post-surgery, it is crucial to actively engage in functional exercises, change dressings, and disinfect the wound to prevent infection. For less severe tenosynovitis, local injection treatments can be an option. Additionally, persistently applying local heat treatments daily can help alleviate symptoms.