Extensor tendonitis, also known as tendinopathy, is inflammation along the top of the foot and hand.It can be caused by a wide range of things, from running to typing too often.Tendonitis can be caused by excessive tightness in the calf muscles, overextension during exercise, and fallen arches.Thankfully, there are a few ways to treat this condition.
Step 1: Ice can be applied for 10 minutes every hour.
The frequencies should be reduced over the next 48 hours.It is possible to use a wet tea towel, ice pack, and compression wrap.Do not apply ice to your skin.If the acute pain stage has passed, try applying a heat pack wrapped in a towel for 15 to 20 minutes at a time.
Step 2: NSAID's reduce pain and inflammation.
Ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin are non-steroidal anti-inflammatories.Inflammation won't be treated with painkillers and muscle relaxers.If you have hypertension, asthma, a history of kidney or liver disease, or are older than 65, ask your doctor if you should use sennas.If you're on any other medications, it's a good idea to consult with your doctor.
Step 3: Until you are completely pain-free, stop using the tendons.
It can take several days to a couple months.Take a break from running and identify what motions are creating the problem.If the tendonitis flares up at work, you should be able to switch to another activity.If you try to resume your previous level of activity even if your pain seems less, you can increase the time it takes for your injury to heal.Tendinosis can be caused by chronic tendonitis and can take up to 9 months to heal.
Step 4: Once you can walk or flex your hands, begin rehabilitation.
If you are experiencing foot pain, do stretching exercises.If you have carpal tunnel, try placing your hands in front of your face, then raising your elbow and keeping them still.Hold for 15 seconds and repeat.If you want to stretch your feet, lie down on your back and flatten your ankle towards the floor.Leg problems can be caused by tight calves.You can stretch your calves by standing on a step with the heel hanging off the back of the step and dropping your heel down for no more than 3 times, 30 seconds each.Once your foot inflammation improves, loop a resistance band over your toes and pull down gently on the band.If you want to strengthen your foot's extensor muscles, you need to repeat 10 times.
Step 5: If you have foot tendonitis, wear appropriate footwear.
Your shoes can't be too tight.Try a different lacing pattern by tying your knot at the side or skipping one of the lacing holes near the area.Pressure will be placed on different spots of your foot.It is possible to pad and support your foot and take away some stress from your tendons with the help of orthotics.A podiatrist can help you with the fit of your shoes.After 500 miles of running, shoes should be replaced.The midsole starts to degrade after this.
Step 6: Pick out the location and nature of your pain.
Tendinopathy can be described as pain on the top of the foot, or an inability to fully extend one of your fingers.If the tendonitis is on your hand, you may have a jammed finger, a weak hand or a cut on the back of your fingers.There may be swelling on the top of the foot.The top of your foot can be affected by curling your toes.
Step 7: Your doctor can give you a diagnosis and treatment options.
Sometimes doctors can assess whether or not you have tendonitis by using an x-ray.They can refer you to physical therapy if you need to have surgery.Over the counter drugs can be prescribed by your doctor.
Step 8: If you get finger splints or stitches, follow your doctor's instructions.
splints or pins are used to hold the injury in place.It takes up to 12 weeks for the tendon to heal.It's important to make sure your splint isn't tight that it cuts off blood flow.If your stitches come apart, you should contact your doctor.
Step 9: Inquire about the creams and gels.
An alternative to oral NSAID can be found in these.There will be less build-up of drugs in blood and remote tissues over time if the drugs stay where they are applied.If you would be taking oral NSAID for more than 3 weeks, this is the best option.Flu-like symptoms and a burning sensation at the application site are common side effects.The appropriate area for the cream or gel should be rubbed twice a day.
Step 10: Ask your doctor if you have steroid injections on your feet.
These can reduce inflammation, but they can weaken your tendons.Steroids are useful for short-term pain relief, but are not a long term solution.They could cause your weakened tendon to tear.If you use blood thinners or certain supplements, you may need to stop taking them for a few days to reduce the risk of bleeding.It can take a few days for an injection to relieve pain.For a few days after an injection, you may experience pain around the injection site.
Step 11: If your doctor recommends physical therapy, try it.
You will get stretches and exercises tailored to your injury by a physical therapist.Some can use light waves to decrease inflammation and encourage healing.