Tendinitis can range from being a mildly annoying pain in the soft tissue around the joints to a condition which makes life miserable. Depending on the degree of problems present, it may be possible to treat tendinitis with one or more home remedies. Here are some suggestions on how to effectively deal with tendinitis using some common sense approaches coupled with treatments using items found in most homes.
For the treatment of tendinitis pain that has just begun to occur, cold treatments may take care of the situation very quickly. Preparing an ice pack, or using one of the frozen gel packs will provide an ideal amount of cold to the inflamed tendons. Simply apply the ice or gel pack to the area. If you don’t have a gel pack handy, then you can always reach into the freezer for a fast solution. Grab a bag of frozen peas, bang them on the countertop to loosen them, and apply to the inflamed area. A twenty-minute treatment with a cold pack of some type will make a big difference in the level of pain that you experience.
On the other hand, ongoing problems will call for a treatment that is the opposite of the initial treatment. The application of heat to the area impacted by tendinitis will help to relax the muscles around the joints and provide some relief. While any type of heat will help some, keep in mind that a wet heat will be especially effective. One way to make a quick moist heating packet is to wet down a towel and toss it in the dryer. The idea is to remove the towel while it is still wet and very hot. Place the hot towel directly on the joint, and then cover with a dry towel. The dry material will help to hold the heat in for a longer period, directing the heat into the joint. Apply for thirty minutes at a time and reapply as needed.
Exercise is also an excellent way to deal with tendinitis. Stretching exercises that are low impact will help to keep the muscles around the joints from becoming too rigid. Taking care to respect what your body is telling you and not overdo the range of motion is important. Instead of trying to do a large number of stretching exercises in one session, consider several shorter sessions throughout the day.
Herbs also can help with tendinitis. Chickweed is especially good for inflamed tissues, with a number of vitamins and nutrients that help to reduce the swelling. Among the more important compounds found in chickweed are iron, vitamin C, and zinc. To help with the physical and emotional stress caused by the presence of tendinitis, take some extra potassium. The combination of herbs and the potassium will help inhibit the level of pain, making it easier to exercise.
Tendinitis does not have to take over your life. By using some simple home remedies, it is possible to treat the inflammation and successfully recover from the condition. Keep in mind that the level of success will depend a great deal on how diligently you choose to apply the home remedies. Daily use should yield results within a few days.
