How many dancers or athletes do you know that have had or currently do have tendonitis? You probably know a lot if you are also involved in dance or sports. Tendonitis is one of the most common injuries for just about anybody, whether it's in the hips, knees, Achilles, shoulders, etc.
Tendonitis is an overuse injury that causes inflammation from the constant breakdown of the tendon fibers within their synovial sheaths. If not rested properly, any tendon can turn in to tendonitis very quickly.
Mild-inflammation and pain during exercise
Moderate-increased inflammation and prolonged pain after movement
Severe-redness, tenderness, substantial inflammation, and constant pain that never subsides
It is extremely important that you take care of tendonitis right away so that it doesn't turn in to a severe case. When you reach severe, you must see a doctor as your tendon could rupture or cause more problems. If your tendon ruptures it will take you away from dance or athletics for up to 4 months, whereas caring for a mild case will require only 2 weeks of complete rest.
For mild and some moderate cases, use the R.I.C.E. method (rest, ice, compression, elevation) and natural anti-inflammatories (Marcozymes, Neprinol AFD, Wobenzymes). You can also try simple exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the tendon and light stretches.
You can details on specific tendonitis in A Dancer's Diary and I will also be putting more detail in my next book which will be specific to athletes.
Let me know if you have any questions!
Until next time,
Amanda
Dear Amanda
i have a 17 year old son who is an able athlete. in November he injured his achillies doing exercises. Rested until February and gradually started back but within weeks he got a sharp pain at top of foot. We have rested again. MRI, PT, hyper barrick chamber and nothing seems to be helping. Any advice really appreciated. Not being able to train and race is really impacted his wellbeing.
kind regards