What is tenosynovitis?

Tenosynovitis describes inflammation of the lining of the protective sheath (the synovium) that covers the tendon.

Symptoms

• Difficulty moving a joint

• Joint pain and tenderness, especially the hand, wrist, foot and ankle

• Joint swelling

Diagnosis

Diagnosis includes a physical exam that reveals swelling over the involved tendon and related muscle pain.

Treatment

Treatment is designed to relieve the pain and reduce the inflammation. Rest or immobilization of the affected tendons is critical to recovery. Applied heat or cold can help, as can nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen. If the tenosynovitis is caused by an infection, antibiotics will be prescribed. A full recovery from tenosynovitis is likely with appropriate care and treatment.