Two important areas of the body that can benefit from an orthopedic specialist are our tendons and our nerves. Tendons are tough fibers that connect your muscles to your bones. Nerves are fibers that transmit messages from one part of the body to another, as tiny electrical signals. Both tendons and muscles cam be injured and need repair.
Most tendon injuries occur near joints, such as the shoulder, elbow, knee and ankle. Tendons can become inflamed; this is called tendinitis. Also, you can tear tissue in and around the tendon; this is called tendinosis. You may hear the term “tendinopathy” to describe inflammation and microtears.
Most tendon injuries are the result of gradual wear and tear to the tendon from overuse or aging. A tendon injury can happen suddenly or little by little. You are more likely to have a sudden injury if the tendon has been weakened over time.
Nerves are fragile and can be damaged by pressure, stretching or cutting. Injury to a nerve can stop signals to and from the brain, causing muscles not to work properly, and a loss of feeling in the injured area.
Tendinopathy usually causes pain, stiffness, and loss of strength in the affected area.
Nerve damage may cause:
Initial treatment for an injured tendon usually includes rest and pain relievers. Your doctor may also prescribe:
Treatment or management of nerve disorders includes:
If you think you may have an injury to a tendon or nerve, contact the orthopedic specialists at Summa Health for a consultation.
