Tenosynovitis

Description

Swelling and irritation of the protective covering of a tendon that connects muscle to bone.

Overview

Tenosynovitis is a painful condition. The hands, wrists and feet are affected most often. Common causes are injury, overuse and infection.

Symptoms

Symptoms of tenosynovitis include pain and swelling around the tendons of the joint. It might be hard and painful to move the affected joint or to use muscles around the joint. There might be creaking or grating sounds when moving the joint.

Treatments

Treatment for tenosynovitis not caused by infection includes self-care measures, regular use of ice, pain relievers you can buy without a prescription, and sometimes splints or braces to keep the joint from moving. Antibiotics might be needed if the cause is infection. Treatment often involves physical or occupational therapy. Sometimes corticosteroid injections are used.