Tendonitis is one of the most common sources of pain and limited function in the upper and lower extremities. It can affect patients of all ages and activity levels—whether from overuse, repetitive strain, trauma, or biomechanical imbalance.
While many milder cases of tendonitis improve with rest and therapy, persistent or severe symptoms may indicate a deeper problem that requires expert evaluation. As a reconstructive surgeon with specialized training in plastic surgery, Dr. Jason Ko provides comprehensive care for tendon injuries in the hand, wrist, elbow, shoulder, knee, and ankle. From accurate diagnosis to advanced surgical reconstruction when needed, Dr. Ko offers a personalized approach to tendonitis care for patients in Chicago and beyond.
Understanding Tendonitis
Tendonitis refers to inflammation with a tendon, the strong, fibrous tissue that connects muscles to bones. This condition often results from overuse or repetitive stress, although sudden injury or age-related degeneration may also contribute. Tendonitis can affect any tendon, but it’s most common in the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and ankles.
Patients with tendonitis may experience localized pain, swelling, tenderness, and restricted range of motion. While some cases improve with rest and conservative care, others can become chronic and significantly impact daily life or athletic performance. Early diagnosis and targeted treatment can reduce long-term damage and restore tendon function.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Tendonitis typically develops from repetitive motion or strain on a tendon, particularly in sports or work environments. It can also be linked to structural imbalances or medical conditions. Common causes and risk factors include:
- Repetitive stress from lifting, typing, or overhead movements
- Poor biomechanics or improper technique
- Age-related degeneration
- Direct trauma to the tendon
- Health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes
- Inadequate rest between physical activities
Over time, stress can lead to microscopic tendon tears, which can trigger inflammation. If untreated, tendonitis can progress to tendinosis, a more degenerative condition.
Symptoms of Tendonitis
Tendonitis symptoms vary depending on location, but commonly include:
- Pain that worsens with movement
- Swelling, warmth, or redness
- A sensation of stiffness or creaking
- Decreased strength or difficulty bearing weight
- Recurring pain after activity or rest
Symptoms often develop gradually. Athletes, laborers, and anyone performing repetitive motions should seek care promptly if discomfort persists.g non-invasive care.
Diagnosing Tendonitis
Dr. Ko begins with a detailed history and physical exam to determine the cause and severity of your symptoms. Imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI, may be recommended to evaluate tendon integrity and rule out tears or nerve compression.
Dr. Ko also considers biomechanical issues, prior injuries, and overall limb function to guide the diagnosis. His integrated approach ensures no contributing factor is overlooked.
Treatment Options for Tendonitis
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, the tendon’s location, and your activity level. Dr. Ko offers a full range of nonsurgical and surgical options to reduce pain, restore strength, and prevent future injury.
Nonsurgical Treatments
Nonsurgical treatments are usually the first approach, particularly for mild tendonitis.
- Activity modification
- Rest
- Physical therapy to improve mechanics and build strength
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Splinting or bracing
- Image-guided injections such as corticosteroids or platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
Dr. Ko tailors therapy to your goals, whether that’s returning to sports, work, or everyday comfort.
Surgical Treatment
When nonoperative therapies don’t relieve tendonitis symptoms or imaging shows degeneration, tendon thickening, calcium deposits, impingement, or partial rupture, some patients need surgery to restore tendon health and prevent further loss of function.
Dr. Ko offers a range of surgical techniques that he recommends based on the location and severity of the tendon injury, as well as the patient’s activity level and goals.
- Tendon Debridement: In cases of chronic tendonitis where the tendon has become thickened, scarred, or weakened, Dr. Ko may perform surgical debridement. This involves carefully removing frayed, inflamed, or degenerated portions of the tendon while preserving healthy tissue. By eliminating these damaged fibers, debridement reduces inflammation and promotes the growth of stronger, more organized tendon fibers.
- Tendon Realignment: When poor tendon positioning contributes to friction, pressure, or biomechanical stress, Dr. Ko may reposition the tendon to its optimal location. This reduces mechanical wear during motion and helps the tendon glide more freely. Tendon realignment is especially useful in areas such as the knee or shoulder, where injury, overuse, or prior surgery may alter anatomical pathways.
- Bone Spur Removal (Osteophyte Excision): In some cases, bony overgrowths (osteophytes) develop near joints and press on the tendons during motion, leading to chronic irritation. Dr. Ko uses precision techniques to remove bone spurs that are impinging on or abrading the tendon. Removing these structures reduces mechanical compression and prevents further damage.
- Calcium Deposit Removal (Calcific Debridement): Chronic tendon inflammation can lead to calcium deposits within the tendon, known as calcific tendonitis. These hard deposits are often painful and can limit motion. Dr. Ko can surgically excise calcium deposits while preserving surrounding tendon integrity, improving both pain and mobility.
- Tendon Lengthening or Release: In situations where tightness or scarring has shortened a tendon, limiting range of motion, Dr. Ko may perform controlled lengthening or release. This can restore the tendon’s functional length and relieve pressure at insertion points, reducing pain and improving flexibility.
- Tendon Transfer or Reconstruction: When the original tendon is too damaged to function properly—even after debridement or repair—Dr. Ko may use a healthy tendon from another location to restore movement. Tendon transfers are complex procedures that require detailed knowledge of anatomy, biomechanics, and nerve function to ensure proper restoration of strength and coordination.
When possible, Dr. Ko performs these procedures using minimally invasive or arthroscopic methods. This approach reduces scarring, shortens recovery time, and allows for a faster return to daily activity or sports. However, he will always recommend the approach that offers the most durable and effective result.
With his dual training in plastic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Ko not only addresses the tendon itself but also evaluates surrounding muscles, bones, and nerves to ensure long-term success. Every surgical plan is tailored to the patient’s individual anatomy, goals, and functional needs.
Tendonitis vs. Other Tendon Conditions
Accurate diagnosis is essential, as several conditions mimic tendonitis:
- Tendinosis: Degenerative tendon damage without active inflammation
- Tenosynovitis: Inflammation of the tendon sheath, common in the hands
- Tears or ruptures: Partial or complete disruptions requiring different treatment
Dr. Ko’s specialized training in orthopedics and plastic surgery enables him to distinguish between these conditions and to design the most effective treatment plan.
Why Choose Dr. Jason Ko for Tendonitis Care
Dr. Jason Ko is a board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic and reconstructive surgeon with additional certification in hand surgery and focused training in orthopedic hand and wrist procedures. His practice integrates advanced musculoskeletal care with leading-edge reconstructive strategies, allowing him to treat tendonitis with exceptional precision and insight.
Patients choose Dr. Ko for his:
- Comprehensive evaluation of tendon, nerve, and musculoskeletal function
- Expertise in both nonsurgical and surgical treatments for tendon disorders
- Minimally invasive techniques when appropriate for faster recovery
- Proven outcomes in complex tendon reconstruction and extremity surgery
- Personalized care tailored to patient goals, lifestyle, and function
With appointments in both plastic surgery and orthopedic surgery at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Dr. Ko combines academic excellence with patient-centered care. He has helped restore movement and reduce pain for countless patients with challenging tendon injuries.
Schedule a Tendonitis Consultation in Chicago
If you’re experiencing persistent tendon pain or limited motion, Dr. Ko is here to support you. Call our Chicago office at 312-695-6022 to book your appointment with Dr. Jason Ko for tendonitis evaluation and treatment.