Who has dealt with bursitis/tendonitis?

[junglegalfla]

Well, I've been thrown a little loop lately with tendonitis in my right shoulder/arm. I am right handed too. It's making it difficult to sleep & do much of anything in the yard. I've had it since early January. If anyone has had it, any tips or tricks to get rid of it? This is a real bummer with spring approaching and so much to do in the garden

I've been icing, using a rub & aleve but that's it so far. After my MRI, the doc prescribed medrol but after reading up on it, I am hesitant to take it. He also wants a month of PT but I can't afford a $50 co-pay 3 times a week! This sucks...hard

[Rusty on Pine Is.]

Hi Bren...OUCH, i know just how you feel....and unfortunately, there are no quick fixes for this major pain in the....ummm, shoulder.

There are exercises that you can do, tons of info on line, and they will help...i assume that the PT would involve the same exercises, with someone there who knows just how much or how little to do....so if you choose to do them be careful, since it is easy to cause more injury by going too fast or too much too soon.

I have it in my left shoulder, and it gets little rest, which is something important in recovery. Anything that helps to reduce inflammation may help, and some of the the OTC pain relievers do that, and so do some vitamins (C, is one) and some mineral supplements will do the same.

I am currently looking at the possibility of electrocstimulation...a TENS unit, i think it is called (for:Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) as a possible therapy, if i get it I'll get in touch and let you you know if it helps.

The bottom line is that this injury takes time....sometimes a lot of time.... to heal.

Here's hoping you fell better sooner rather than later.....i feel your pain, but mine is in the opposite shoulder.

Rusty

[SunnyFl]

Bren and Rusty, I'm sorry you have this - it's upsetting to have pain interfere with your enjoyment of gardening. And both of you have such wonderful gardens - Rusty, I remember being in awe of your place when we visited. I'm sorry, I don't know jacksquat about tendonitis, except that it's painful, and using the affected areas just aggravates the condition. Bren, you say you've had it since January. I'm wondering if the protracted cooler temps we had this winter set it off. Cooler weather isn't kind to inflammatory conditions like that. I hope it will ease up now that it's getting warmer.

I don't have tendonitis/bursitis, but I do have osteoarthritis in my knees, toes, hands and neck. And fibromyalgia. Cool wx makes it worse. But the meds for it have side effects that I don't want. And yeah, the cost of PT is prohibitive.

It sucks when physical pain takes away your enjoyment of nature - and doing things you love.

[spockvr6]

I have had this for ~1 yr now in my right shoulder due to playing tennis. It is very common in this sport due to the overhead motion used when serving.

The bottom line for me has been........this injury just takes time to heal. I stopped playing tennis for ~9 months and it really did take that long to feel notably better. In the past 2 weeks, Ive played tennis twice, and I can feel the injury is still there, albeit at a reduced level. So, I can see that even more time is needed.

[gsn]

I can speak with a little knowledge of this,as I severed my achilles tendon when I was 21. This was back in the dark ages when they used to use WIRE to repair the injury,the wire is broken in several places,known via X-Rays!

I have had several bouts of of tendonitis in that ankle/leg since the injury,none recently ,thank god.

Larry is right the only thing that will help is not using it, at least in the way the injury presented itself.

I have been in walking casts(re: imobilized,not using it) 2 times since the healing of the initial injury,and after removal and a little PT and things were fine.

I think bursitis is a whole different animal, but I am not sure?

Good luck with it Bren.

Edited February 15, 2009 by gsn

[junglegalfla]

It actually started killing me more after I had an 80 min hot stone massage in Mexico. I think maybe she tweaked something. I also thought that perhaps I was worsened by hoisting up Flipper the day after the massage

[DoomsDave]

Bren:

I concur with Rusty.

I got a nasty case of tennis elbow by getting too macho when I cut up a large pecan tree using loppers that weren't big enough. I've also had a similar problem in my knee. A doc's exam showed no torn ligaments, thank heaven!

I rested, used heating pads, lots of ibuprofen (800 mg 4 times a day, with a little food) and massage of the affected area. It took a while, but the pain went away.

That is an easy 11 on a scale of 1 -10. AGONY getting into the car with the knee trouble.

Are you sure you don't have a torn rotator cuff or something like that?

I assume the MRI would show if there was.

Once you beat the pain back, it's important to stretch before exertion, or it can come back. I stretch religiously before going on long bike rides.

Keep us apprized and know you're not alone.

[_Keith]

Try Accupuncture. Really. Many swear by it. I confess when I had tendonitis I waited the year for it to heal itself while I babied my shoulder. But next time, I will be at the Accupuncture place in the first week.

[DoomsDave]

I've tried accu-punk, and well, if it's not curable, okay, but Western Med offers a cure.

Try that first, dear.

We reall y want to know.

We'll dance with you when you feel better!

[_Keith]

Western meds have a cure for everything. Only problem is you usually have to take several other western meds to counteract the side effects of the first western med. Don't get me wrong, I have taken my share of western meds and no doubt will take more, but they aren't the end all be all to getting better, especially steroids. They can make you feel wonderful, but,,,,,,

So, if you are going to take Medrol, read this first.

SIDE EFFECTS: Adverse effects of methylprednisolone depend on dose, duration and frequency of administration. Short courses of methylprednisolone are usually well-tolerated with few, mild side effects. Long term, high doses of methylprednisolone may produce predictable and potentially serious side effects. Whenever possible, the lowest effective doses of methylprednisolone should be used for the shortest length of time to minimize side effects. Alternate day dosing also can help reduce side effects.

Side effects of methylprednisolone and other corticosteroids range from mild annoyances to serious irreversible bodily damage. Side effects include fluid retention, weight gain, high blood pressure, potassium loss, headache, muscle weakness, puffiness of the face, hair growth on the face, thinning and easy bruising of the skin, glaucoma, cataracts, peptic ulceration, worsening of diabetes, irregular menses, growth retardation in children, convulsions, and psychic disturbances. Psychic disturbances may include depression, euphoria, insomnia, mood swings, personality changes, and even psychotic behavior.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Troleandomycin (TAO), an infrequently used macrolide antibiotic, reduces the liver's ability to metabolize methylprednisolone (and possibly other corticosteroids). This interaction can result in higher blood levels of methylprednisolone and a higher probability of side effects. Erythromycin and clarithromycin (Biaxin) are likely to share this interaction, and ketoconazole (Nizoral) also inhibits the metabolism of methylprednisolone. Estrogens, including birth control pills, can increase the effect of corticosteroids by 50% by mechanisms that are not completely understood. For all of the above interactions, the dose of methylprednisolone may need to be lowered. Cyclosporin reduces the metabolism of methylprednisolone while methylprednisolone reduces the metabolism of cyclosporin. When given together, the dose of both drugs may need to be reduced to avoid increased side effects.

Methylprednisolone may increase or decrease the effect of blood thinners [for example, warfarin (Coumadin)]. Blood clotting should be monitored and therapy adjusted in order to achieve the desired level of blood thinning (anti-coagulation).

Phenobarbital, phenytoin (Dilantin), and rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane) may increase the metabolism of methylprednisolone and other corticosteroids, resulting in lower blood levels and reduced effects. Therefore, the dose of methylprednisolone may need to be increased if treatment with phenobarbital is begun.

[DoomsDave]

Ow!

Kieth!

You're on the draw, bro!

[_Keith]

  Dave from So-Cal said:

Ow!

Kieth!

You're on the draw, bro!

Dave, it is most unfortunate that I know so much. I have had more health issues in the last decade than I care to mention. Know way more than I want to know about steroids too. Not only from personal experience, but from several lawyer friends. Last time they were prescribed for me, I walked away from them. My health issues may some day force me to take them again, but it will be kicking and screaming all of the way. I could go on and on, but this isn't the place. We'll share a beer someday. Wait, we'll find something better than this to talk about when we do. Nevermind.

[junglegalfla]

Keith,

What you posted about the medrol is exactly why I don't care to take it. Now, about acupuncture. I am a strong believer in it. My good friend is a doctor of chinese medicine AND a licensed pharmacist. She understands both sides of the coin. I'm going for a session towards the end of this week. The shoulder pain has subsided some but I now have some numbness going on. I used acupuncture to help get a hold of my out of control allergies 4 yrs ago. I felt it was really beneficial for me and I always look forward to it. If anything, it makes me feel more centered.

[palmmermaid]

Hope the accupuncture works for you. It certainly helped me with a bad shoulder. I pulled it swimming long distances.

I agree with Keith. I am not taking most western medicines. The side affects are as bad if not worse than the ailment they are supposed to cure. Go out to the website for the peoples pharmacy. www.thepeoplespharmacy.com They offer some really good advice that doesn't use meds.

I also read in You: The Owner's Manual by Dr. Memet Oz that the drugs like Aleve actually make the inflammation worse. Check that out.

Anyway, I hope it heals for you - sooner rather than later!

[edbrown_III]

I had a bad case of it... I used the methopregnizone that was discussed. it gets you out of the woods so to speak. This quickly solved the major pain problem. This was a 10 day course of treatment (as I recollect) The bursa in the shoulder loses it fluid and this is where the pain comes from as I learned. The steroid reduces the inflammation until the bursa can repair itself. I was in late 30's when I got my bout-- I exercised my way into it.

One consequence of it was that I stopped doing heavy bench presses -- still do lots of manual labor for gardening etc but have mechanized over the years.

Very painful, I hope you get better.

Best regards

Ed

[MattyB]

Bren, massages can make you sore, that's normal. So I highly doubt that caused your problem. Usually it's a repetitive motion that inflames the bursa or tendons. I've dealt with tendonitis for many years while I was a pitcher in Little League and High School and with jumpers knee from basketball, and too many other things. I have the body of an 80 year old, my wife says. And now I get reocurring bouts if I'm going too heavy at the gym. The only solution is to not use the area. The inflamation needs to go away. Then you can start some light PT to strengthen the surrounding muscles which will help take the strain and or impact off of the effected area or joints. Sometimes with elbow tendonitis or jumpers knee you can wear a strap that essentially creates a false connection point of the tendon, taking the burdon off of the tendon connection point itself. But I'm not sure if that's an option with Bursitis in the shoulder. Not that I know of. Rest, rest, rest, then get a rubber workout band and do some light PT to get going again. Good luck.

[spockvr6]

Bren-

I think you are getting consensus here.......

The solution is resting of the injured area coupled with time.......

[Kim]

I had a touch of it a few years ago. My solution, as you are hearing, was rest the affected area, no meds, but mine was a mild case. Then no more weight machines, free weights only. I don't know about lifting dolphins! Looks like fun...

I started acupuncture treatment Friday for a different physical annoyance. So far no change, but I will reserve judgement until I have tried a full course of treatment.

[MattyB]

Focus Kim. Your perception that you're being healed is a much more poweful healer than anything. Interesting that you mention switching from machines to free weights. I never thought about that, but free weights engage all those smaller stabilizing muscles. Maybe Tiki Rick can chime in. I believe he's the Pro-Trainer among us. Ibuprophin is a great anti-inflamatory btw.

[DoomsDave]

Bren . . .

Any improvement?

If so, good. Keep up the treatment, or it will flare up again.

[Walter John]

Had tendonitis bad in the elbow about this time last year, common name "tennis elbow". I was playing table tennis comp too and I was put of action for a couple of weeks. Went to physio twice, wore an elbow guard, rubbed horse liniment into it and after a few months it gradually went away. Painful and annoying, do not recommend you get it this ailment.

[DoomsDave]

  Wal said:

Had tendonitis bad in the elbow about this time last year, common name "tennis elbow". I was playing table tennis comp too and I was put of action for a couple of weeks. Went to physio twice, wore an elbow guard, rubbed horse liniment into it and after a few months it gradually went away. Painful and annoying, do not recommend you get it this ailment.

It's even more fun on the left knee.

Since we drive left-handed in the U.S., you have to use your left leg to lower yourself into the car. When your knee feels like someone's sawing it off with a dull pruning saw dipped in acid, it hurts, brings tears to the eyes. I couldn't believe I didn't permanently wreck my knee it hurt so badly. NOw, I'm fine, but, I stretch every morning, the yoga position called "rocking the baby." Since I've done that, no problem. Thank heaven!

I know a few people in this board have had fun knee surgery . . . . .

[junglegalfla]

If anything, this little bout is making me realize that although I dream of more land down the line, I'd better be able to afford the right powered tools to make that dream a reality! I am only 37 but I can imagine that this type of stuff will only become more frequent and intense the older I get.

I am better but am realizing my 'computer' job is likely my worst culprit. The dolphin was only in jest. The massage the catalyst to an under lying condition. I think I have 'mouse' arm and don't know how to avoid being shackled 9 hrs a day + my palm talk addiction .

Okay..I'm going to ice now

[John Case]

Bren,

Red wine, in excess, using the good arm.

Case closed.

[SunnyFl]

  Dave from So-Cal said:

It's even more fun on the left knee...

I know a few people in this board have had fun knee surgery . . . . .

yup. this girl. it was my left knee... and I drive manual transmission.....

had arthroscopic to remove tearing cartilege and arthritic grunge.... and arrived at the rainforest sale using a cane (doc said I wasn't supposed to drive far but he doesn't understand........

...PALM ADDICTION!

edited to add: On a serious note - someone mentioned how good ibuprofen is. For those who suffer headaches, ibuprofen is the only analgesic that isn't implicated in rebound headache, according to Prevention Mag (and this seems to be true).

Edited February 17, 2009 by SunnyFl

[MattyB]

  SunnyFl said:

For those who suffer headaches, ibuprofen is the only analgesic that isn't implicated in rebound headache, according to Prevention Mag (and this seems to be true).

What does that mean? In lay terms.

[John Case]

  MattyB said:

  SunnyFl said:

For those who suffer headaches, ibuprofen is the only analgesic that isn't implicated in rebound headache, according to Prevention Mag (and this seems to be true).

What does that mean? In lay terms.

A rebound headache is the one that comes back once the medication wears off and is much worse than the original (makes you 'lay' down?) This is a big item for migraine sufferers (my spouse seems to get one every time I want to do something together).

Ibuprofen (generic) Advil, and the like seem to help.....

[Darold Petty]

I don't know anything about the 'istis' problems but I would like to relate a potential caution with ibuprofen. I'm a remodeling contractor and carpenter. When I work full-time as a carpenter I get a lot of aches and pain in my back and hands. About 10 years ago, I was taking ibuprofen 3 or 4 times per week. While backpacking in the High Sierra mountains I suffered the rupture of a small artery within a duodenal ulcer. The first and only symptom was when I started losing blood out both ends,... a lot! This caused me some concern, as it was a two day hike back to the car. Thanks to my very high clotting factor I survived to enjoy PalmTalk. The gastroenterologist who treated me told me that it was anecdotal among his peers that ibuprofen can increase the risk for such ulcers. By anecdotal, he meant that there has been no formal, peer reviewed study published to support this position. He strongly recommended that I use only acetaminophen, and I have followed his advice!

[JungleGina]

Another ibuprofen warning...don't overdo it!! It can cause horrible withdrawals (including headaches!) if you take too much and can shut down your liver. I found out when my BF went in the hospital for surgery and three days later still looked like death and his head still hurt (AFTER having a tumor removed). Took a while, but the doc finally figured out that's what it was. We never realized it could be so dangerous.

[metalfan]

I was struggling with Achilles tendonitis for a long time, it was diagnosed as an 'overuse' injury, but as it turned out, it was totally 100% related to my running shoes. I changed my shoe type and it went away, completely.

Now I am scheduled to run another marathon this Sunday, and to run the Boston Marathon in April. I was having a tinge of patellar tendonitis in my knee from training on downhills (Boston is very hilly). I started doing some stretches and core exercises formulated specifically for knee issues, and started taking Glucosamine-Chondroiton daily. The tendonitis is virtually gone. Of course runners pop NSAIDS like candy, that's a given. We buy the economy size Ibuprofin bottles, LOL.

There are probably some exercises you could do to help strengthen the muscles that control your shoulder. I would also second massage. Since glucosamine-chon. is in the category of "may or may not work" (it seems to help some and not help all) and has no "scientific backing" I can only say, it seems to work for me personally. I think acupuncture is a great thing to try.

My husband is an MD and prescribes steroids to many of his patients. The law for steroids is the least amount needed for the shortest length of time. No one wants the side effects that steroids give, but sometimes they do help.

[DoomsDave]

  metalfan said:

My husband is an MD and prescribes steroids to many of his patients. The law for steroids is the least amount needed for the shortest length of time. No one wants the side effects that steroids give, but sometimes they do help.

Und, zometimes ze zide effects are ze whole point, ja . . . . .

[metalfan]

Dave silly, not ANABOLIC steroids. Stuff like Dexamethasone. Decreases swelling in the brain. Or Prednisone, which is commonly given for intractable asthma. Not all steroids are evil. Some have long standing and valid medical usage. But like I said...smallest dose that's effective, for the shortest time is what's aimed for.