Tendonitis Diagnosis

Medically reviewed by:

Dr Dan Bunstone - Medical Officer

Updated: Aug 18, 2021

Next review: Aug 18, 2022

If your tendonitis is only mild, you may just need over-the-counter painkillers to manage the pain whilst the tendon heals.

As well as oral tablets, there are creams and gels available that you can rub on to the affected area that may help. A pharmacist will be able to advise which painkillers are most suitable for you and your situation.

If the pain is severe, if the tendon is not healing, or if you think you may have ruptured a tendon, you should speak to a GP.

The doctor will ask you some questions about the pain you’re experiencing and they may ask you to perform certain movements, so they can see how much movement you have in the affected area.

They may prescribe you stronger painkillers, or another type of treatment. If further investigation is needed, you may be referred for a physical examination, or for further tests, such as an MRI scan, ultrasound or X-ray to rule out other possible causes.

Tendonitis has a number of possible symptoms and causes, so our doctors will need to have as much information as you can give them, in order to provide an accurate diagnosis for you.

By asking the right questions and ruling out similar joint or tendon problems, they can make sure you get the most suitable treatment and stop tendonitis from affecting your life.

Dr Dan Bunstone - Medical Officer

Mild tendonitis

When should I see a GP?