You’re experiencing a nagging ache, a sharp pain, or a tight pulling sensation in your forearm that flares up when you try to open a jar, swing a racket, or even just type on a computer. If that’s what you’re experiencing, you may have a type of tendinitis.
What types of tendinitis might be affecting your forearm?
Tendinitis is an inflammation or irritation of a tendon. Tendons are a strong, rope-like tissue that connects your muscles to your bones. When these tendons get overworked or injured, they can become swollen and painful. In your forearm, several tendons can lead to conditions such as:
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Medial epicondylitis
Also known as Golfer’s elbow, this type of tendinitis affects the tendons that connect the muscles in your forearm to the inner bony part of your elbow. These muscles are important for bending your wrist and fingers, and for rotating your forearm.
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Lateral epicondylitis
More commonly known as tennis elbow, this tendinitis affects the tendons on the outer part of your elbow. These muscles are mainly responsible for straightening your wrist and fingers.
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De Quervain’s tenosynovitis
Also known as thumb tendinitis, this type of tendonitis affects the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist. These are the two main tendons that help you move your thumb outwards and backward.
Here’s some encouraging news: Forearm tendinitis is treatable. With the right care, you can reduce pain, restore movement and get back to doing the things you enjoy.
What’s causing your forearm tension and soreness?
Multiple factors can contribute to the development of forearm tendinitis. Often, it’s related to repetitive movements or activities that put stress on the forearm muscles and tendons, for example:
- Sports — Activities like tennis, golf, baseball or even weightlifting can put strain on the forearm.
- Work — Jobs that involve repetitive hand and wrist movements, such as typing, using tools, painting or assembly line work, can lead to tendinitis over time.
- Hobbies — Sometimes, tendinitis can be due to enjoyable hobbies like gardening, knitting or playing musical instruments.
- Sudden injury — A direct blow or sudden forceful movement of the forearm can also injure the tendons.
- Age — As we get older, our tendons can become less flexible and more prone to injury.
- Other underlying conditions — In some cases, conditions like arthritis, irritated nerves in your neck or diabetes can make it more likely for you to develop tendinitis.
Sometimes, it can be tricky to pinpoint the exact cause, but understanding these common factors can help you identify potential triggers in your own life.
7 ways to find relief from forearm tendinitis
There are many effective ways to manage and relieve the pain and discomfort of forearm tendinitis. Here are some key strategies:
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Rest and activity modification
It’s important to give your affected forearm a break. This doesn’t necessarily mean complete inactivity, but it does mean avoiding or reducing the activities that make your pain worse.
Listen to your body. If a certain movement causes pain, stop doing it or find a way to modify it so it’s less stressful. This may involve taking more breaks, using different techniques or adjusting your workspace.
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Cold and heat therapy
Both ice and heat play a role in managing tendinitis symptoms:
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Cold therapy
Applying ice packs to the affected area several times a day can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain. Make sure to wrap the ice pack in a towel to protect your skin.
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Heat therapy
After the initial inflammation has subsided, applying heat can help to relax the muscles, boost blood flow and promote healing.
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Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications
For very short-term relief, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help to reduce pain and inflammation. Follow the instructions on the packaging and talk to a doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.
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Braces
Wearing a brace or support can help to immobilize the affected forearm and wrist, reducing stress on the injured tendons. The type of brace you may need will depend on the specific area affected. A doctor or licensed physical therapist can help you choose the right brace and advise on how long and when to wear it.
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Physical therapy
Physical therapy is one of the most effective treatments for tendinitis. A trained physical therapist will guide you through exercises and techniques to help reduce pain, improve flexibility and prevent future flare-ups.
Some physical therapy techniques they may incorporate into your treatment plan include:
- Therapeutic exercises
- Manual therapy, such as soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, myofascial release or Graston Technique®
- Dry needling
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Corticosteroid injections
In some cases of persistent and severe tendonitis, your doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection directly into the affected area. Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory medications that can potentially provide quick and significant pain relief.
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Surgery
As a last resort, surgery is typically only considered for forearm tendinitis when the other non-surgical treatments have failed to provide sufficient relief after a significant period. The type of surgery will depend on the specific tendon involved and the problems it’s causing.
If your pain lasts more than a few weeks, gets worse or interferes with your daily tasks, it’s time to see a health care provider. The sooner you start treatment, the easier it can be to recover.
Your journey to recovery from forearm tendinitis starts with Forever Fit
Forearm tendinitis can make everyday tasks feel frustrating and even painful, but you don’t have to live with it. At Forever Fit, our licensed physical therapists specialize in personalized tendinitis treatment plans. We use a variety of proven techniques, selected to meet your individual needs, to help you work toward feeling your best. It’s a good idea to seek support before the pain starts to significantly interfere with your daily life. With the right treatment and a little patience, you can heal and stay active.
Contact Forever Fit today to start your recovery journey and give your body the care it deserves.