Tendinitis

Inflammation of the tendon and the lining of the tendon sheath. The sheath is typically the focus of the involvement, but the body’s inflammatory response usually involves the tendon, too. The etiology is unknown, although repetitive or forceful trauma, exercise or strain, systemic diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, gout, Reiter’s syndrome) and hypercholesterolemia are implicated.

Most frequently affected tendons: shoulder capsule tendons, flexor carpi ulnaris, flexor digitorum, hip capsule tendons, hamstrings, and Achilles. Localized tenderness (may be severe); swelling over the area; pain on moving the tendon.

Naturopathic Approach

A naturopathic approach to treating someone with tendinitis includes physical modalities such as castor oil packs, ice, and active release technique. Clinical nutrition and botanical medicine may be prescribed to help decrease inflammation, break down scar tissue and tissue congestion and optimize tissue healing.