What are the symptoms of tendonitis and tenosynovitis?
Pain, tenderness and swelling of the affected area of tendon are typical. The overlying skin may be warm. Any tendon of the body may be affected. However, tendons over the wrist and hand are most commonly affected. The inflammation may last just a few days. Sometimes it can last weeks or months if not treated.

What is the cause of tendonitis and tenosynovitis?
- Overuse - of a tendon is the common cause. These conditions commonly occur around the wrist and overuse by lots of writing (writers cramp), typing, etc, can trigger inflammation.
- Arthritis - can sometimes include inflammation of the tendons as well as the joints
- Unknown - many cases seem to occur for no apparent reason
- Infection - between the tendon and its sheath is a rare cause.

What is the treatment?
- Rest - is important to allow the inflammation to settle. Sometimes splint, firm bandage or brace is put on a wrist if this is the area affected. This enforces the hands and wrist to stay in the same position to allow rest of the affected tendon.
- Ice packs - over the affected area may ease swelling and pain.
- Anti-inflammatory painkillers - are often prescribed (for example, ibuprofen). These ease pain and reduce inflammation.
- Physiotherapy - may be advised.
- A steroid injection - into the site of inflammation may be given if the above measures do not work. Steroids work by reducing inflammation. It is usually effective.
- Surgical release of a tendon - is rarely needed.

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