The common signs of tendovaginitis are pain, swelling and tenderness on the affected joint. In most cases, movement of the inflamed joint must be reduced immediately to allow healing to take place. At times, the pain lasts for a couple of days and goes away without any need for medical treatment and medication. But in other instances, the pain and swelling continues for months especially if the injury is left untreated.
Tendovaginitis is the inflammation of the tendon and its surrounding sheath, also known as the synovium. Some tendons are covered by the sheath but there are others which are not. The synovium produces a small quantity of oily fluid that is released in between the tendon and its overlying sheath. This oily fluid helps the tendon to move smoothly and freely as it pulls on the attached bone.
Every tendon on the human body could suffer from tendovaginitis but there are some areas which are more susceptible to this kind of injury. Examples are the hands and wrist since they are often the ones used for doing activities and other motions that are repetitious.
While there is no actual evidence of anything that could prevent the occurrence of tendovaginitis, it is recommended by medical practitioners that repetitive motion be reduced and avoided as much as possible. There are also some exercises that help strengthen the muscles that surround the injured tendon. Consult a physical therapist to find out the best possible exercise that could be used.
