Can tendinitis be treated with a cortisone injection?

Written by Na Hong Wei
Orthopedics
Updated on September 21, 2024
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Can a cortisone injection be used for tendinitis? From a clinical perspective, for tendinitis, other conservative treatments such as physical therapy, massage, and oral medications can be used. When treatments like phototherapy are ineffective or not yielding results, a cortisone injection is certainly an option. As long as it is accurately targeted, the results of a cortisone injection are very satisfactory. In some cases of tendinitis, a cortisone injection can even achieve a curative effect. Thus, after tendinitis, a cortisone injection can definitely be used for treatment.

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Written by Li Jie
Orthopedics
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Which location to massage for tendinitis

Since a tendon is a bundle that extends from the muscle belly and is elongated, during massage, one should not only focus on the painful area but should consider the entire muscle and tendon. Massaging only the painful area is similar to the notion of treating just the head for a headache or just the foot for foot pain. Therefore, when massaging, it is necessary to cover the entire muscle from its origin to its insertion, reaching the painful parts of the tendon. Also, one should avoid rough massage techniques; instead, gentle manipulations are encouraged. Otherwise, it could lead to counterproductive effects and not be beneficial. Gentle massage or heat application are both acceptable methods.

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Written by Na Hong Wei
Orthopedics
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How to treat shoulder tendinitis?

Shoulder tendinitis is commonly seen in supraspinatus tendinitis, infraspinatus tendinitis, and long head of the biceps tendinitis. The treatment is mainly conservative. During the acute phase of tendinitis, resting, immobilization, and wearing protective gear are recommended. Secondly, oral intake of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be considered. Thirdly, traditional Chinese medicines can be taken orally or applied topically. Fourthly, injection therapy can be considered, which usually has good effects. Fifthly, physical therapy is an option, including heat therapy and microwave therapy, with a special recommendation for shockwave therapy, which is very effective for tendinitis throughout the body. If conservative treatment is ineffective, surgical treatment may be necessary, tailored to the specific tendon involved.

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Written by Guan Jing Tao
Orthopedics
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Will tendinitis gradually heal by itself?

The answer is negative. Even minor injuries, if not properly addressed and managed, can gradually develop into more severe and chronic diseases. This later affects normal daily life. Tendonitis, for example, is mostly caused by repetitive stretching, severe tearing, or corresponding work-related strain. Therefore, the first step is rest. Additionally, local applications of topical plasters or physical therapies like thermotherapy, acupuncture, and appropriate spectrum treatments can alleviate localized pain and swelling. However, at least two to four weeks of rest is required. After recovery, it is also necessary to avoid repetitive stretching and excessive physical strain to prevent recurrence.

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Written by Na Hong Wei
Orthopedics
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How to treat tendinitis?

If it is an acute onset of tendinitis, urgent treatment is recommended. This involves the use of RICE therapy, which is the internationally renowned "rice therapy," including four points: rest, ice, compression, and elevation of the affected limb. Secondly, you can take some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce inflammation and pain. Thirdly, consider undergoing physical therapy, mainly including heat therapy, shockwave therapy, and microwave therapy, aimed at improving blood circulation and promoting healing. If the pain is particularly severe, you might also consider block therapy, but try to avoid it as it could potentially damage the tendon. Fifth, rehabilitation therapy can be conducted, which should be performed under the guidance of a physiotherapist and rehabilitation therapist. Thus, conservative treatment for tendinitis includes these methods. If some patients, especially those for whom conservative treatment is ineffective or even worsens symptoms, consider surgical treatment. However, surgical treatment should be strictly reserved for appropriate cases because it involves significant pain, potential complications, and a longer recovery time.

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Written by Na Hong Wei
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Tendonitis

Tendonitis refers to a sterile inflammation of the tendon itself or its surrounding sheath caused by various reasons. The term "tendonitis" means that, firstly, the affected area is either the tendon or the surrounding tissue. Secondly, it is a sterile inflammation. The causes of tendonitis are generally the following four points: The first point is acute injury. The second point is chronic overuse. The third point is an increased load on the tendon itself, causing some micro-damage inside the tendon. This leads to inflammation due to bleeding and inflammatory irritation in the tendon or around the tendon. The fourth point involves prolonged exercise or excessive exercise load, which then leads to congestive hematoma around the tendon, ultimately leading to inflammation.