Forearm tendonitis involves inflammation of the forearm tendons. It is important to note that the tendons are soft bundles of connective tissue that link muscles to bones and enables the joints to bend and extend. If the tendons are irritated or damaged, inflammation arises which leads to tendonitis.
What are the signs?
The usual sign of forearm tendonitis is inflammation, pain, swelling or redness in the forearm. The conditions might trigger symptoms in or around the wrist, elbow and hand.
Other signs of forearm tendonitis include:
- Burning sensation
- Warmth
- Weakness of loss of grip strength
The doctor might suggest physical therapy or pain-control drugs for long-term, intense or debilitating cases of forearm tendonitis. - Pulsating or throbbing sensation
- Stiffness that often worsens after sleeping
- Intense pain or discomfort when using the elbow, wrist or forearm
- Lump in the forearm
- Inability or difficulty bearing weight on the wrist, forearm or elbow
- Numbness in the hands, wrist, fingers or elbow
- Grating sensation if the tendon is moved
Management of forearm tendonitis
Home remedies
Forearm tendinitis can be managed at home with the following:
- RICE method
- Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and pain medications
- Strengthening and stretching exercises
Treatment
The doctor might suggest physical therapy or pain-control drugs for long-term, intense or debilitating cases of forearm tendonitis.
Other treatment options suggested by the doctor include:
- Physiotherapy
- Massage therapy
- Corticosteroid injections
- Prescription-strength anti-inflammatory and pain medications
- Myofascial release techniques
- Extracorporeal shock wave therapy
Surgery might be an option to fix the injury if there is a serious tear or damage. It is also recommended for severe or lasting tendonitis that does not respond to other treatment options.