What does tendinitis refer to?

Tendinitis refers specifically to the inflammation of a tendon, which is a fibrous connective tissue that attaches muscle to bone. This inflammation typically arises due to repetitive motion, overuse, or injury, leading to pain and discomfort in the affected area. The term emphasizes the inflammatory process, which can cause symptoms such as tenderness, swelling, and restricted movement in the associated joint. Understanding tendinitis is crucial for effective treatment and rehabilitation strategies, as it often requires rest, physiotherapy, and, in some cases, medication to reduce inflammation and pain.

In contrast, a fracture of a tendon, a complete rupture of a tendon, and swelling of a tendon sheath are distinct conditions that do not accurately describe the inflammatory nature of tendinitis. These conditions involve more severe damage or issues related to the tendon, which is why they are not correct definitions of tendinitis itself.