A Lump On The Tendon

Tendons are the connective tissues that attach your muscles to your bones. They form a bridge between the two structures, allowing the muscles to move your bones and joints for various tasks, such as walking, running, and lifting objects. Unfortunately, these hard-working tissues can be prone to injury or other damage. One of these injuries is a lump on the tendon. 

A lump on the tendon is a condition in which a small, rounded mass of tissue forms near or around the tendon. The lumps can cause pain and discomfort when moving the affected limb – and, as a result, can make physical activity more challenging while also causing a decline in your quality of life.

These lumps can be caused by various underlying conditions – and treatment depends on the exact diagnosis. We can help provide long-term relief from the chronic pain and inflammation associated with tendon lumps.

Symptoms Of Tendon Lumps

When lumps develop on your tendons, they can cause several different symptoms. However, the tendon lumps can themselves be a sign of an underlying condition that could cause other symptoms as well. The following are some of the symptoms specifically associated with tendon lumps:

• Soft bump that won’t move
• Swelling on the tendons
• Pain gets worse when there’s a joint movement
• Weakness
• Tingling or numbness sensation

What Causes Tendon Lumps?

When it comes to tendon lumps, there is not a single cause that can be pinpointed. In fact, various factors can cause or contribute to the development of these lumps. Some of the more common causes include:

Irritation Of The Tendons

Overuse of the affected tendon can cause irritation and lead to a lump over time. This is particularly common in athletes who put extra strain on their tendons during intense physical activity and people who perform repetitive motions that require frequent use of the same tendons (e.g. typing). This type of irritation leads to lumps because the inflammation around the area can cause the tissue to become swollen, leading to a lump.

Synovial Cyst

A synovial cyst is an abnormal growth of a fluid-filled sac near the tendon. These cysts can cause pain, swelling, and a noticeable lump in the area. Cysts are most often caused by degenerative joint diseases like arthritis, but they can also be caused by injury or trauma. 

Tendon Abnormalities

A lump on the tendon can also be caused by an abnormality in the structure of the tendon itself. This can occur due to a congenital disability or injury and may lead to additional symptoms such as pain and stiffness. Common injuries that can lead to tendon abnormalities include:

• Fractures 
• Dislocated joints 
• Tendon tears 
• Tendonitis 

Degeneration Of Tendons Or Joints

Finally, certain diseases or conditions can lead to the degeneration of tendons or joints, which can cause a lump on the tendon due to inflammation and swelling. These conditions include:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis 
• Rotator cuff issues 
• Gout 

Health Conditions Associated With Lumps On The Tendons

Although tendon lumps can result from injury or wear and tear, several underlying health conditions can also cause tendon lumps. Some of these health conditions include the following:

Tendonitis

Tendonitis refers to inflammation of the tendons. When tendonitis occurs, it can not only cause pain, but the tendons will often become inflamed and swollen as well. This inflammation can cause a lump to form on the tendon. Tendonitis is generally caused by overuse or repetitive use of the tendon.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that results in pain and swelling in the joints. These symptoms occur as a result of causing the immune system to mistakenly attack your body’s healthy tissue. In some cases, this condition can cause lumps on your tendons.

Ganglion Cysts

Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can form near a tendon. They are usually noncancerous and cause no harm, but they can be painful and lead to lumps on the tendon. The exact cause behind ganglion cysts is unknown, but it is believed that they may be caused by overuse or injury to the area. 

Calcific Tendinopathy

Calcific tendinopathy is caused by an imbalance in the body’s calcium levels, which can lead to the deposition of calcium deposits around the tendon. This can cause inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the affected area. In some cases, these calcium deposits can lead to lumps on the tendon as well. 

The exact cause of calcific tendinopathy is unknown. However, specialists believe it’s due to a combination of hormonal imbalances, arthritis, and injury or overuse. It has also been linked to certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism.

Tenosynovitis

Tenosynovitis is a condition in which the tendon sheath becomes inflamed, which can cause pain and swelling. It can also lead to lumps on the tendon caused by fluid buildup. Tenosynovitis is often caused by repetitive use or injury to the area, as well as certain medical conditions, which can include rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes.

Diagnosis And The Importance Of Seeking Medical Evaluation

If you notice pain or swelling in a specific area of your body, it is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. This is particularly true if the affected area feels warm or tender to the touch. A lump on the tendon could indicate an underlying condition. Depending on what that condition is, immediate treatment may be required to prevent further damage and complications. It’s also important to note that some tendon lumps can result from injury and can heal independently over time, depending on the severity.

To accurately diagnose a problem, your doctor should perform a physical exam. They should also use imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to identify if any lumps have developed on your tendons as well as determine the cause of the problem. Your doctor may also order blood tests so that they can rule out other underlying medical conditions that could be causing or contributing to the symptoms. 

Once a diagnosis has been made, your doctor will recommend treatment. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical help:

• Pain in the affected area that gets worse with movement or activity 
• Swelling and tenderness around the area 
• Limited range of motion 
• Noticeable lump on the tendon 
• Redness or warmth in the affected area 

Conventional Treatment Options

Most doctors will recommend conventional treatment for a lump on the tendon. Treatment will vary depending on the severity of the symptoms you’re experiencing and the cause of the lump. The following are some of the conventional treatment options for tendon lumps:

Medications

Generally, most doctors will prescribe pain medications that can provide temporary relief. Although such medicines can be effective, they’re only suitable for short-term masking of your symptoms. If the lumps are caused by an underlying condition, these medications won’t be a good long-term solution. The following are some of the types of medications commonly prescribed for tendon lumps:

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs are a type of pain medication that can reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Examples include ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin. Some NSAIDs are available over the counter, while others require prescriptions. 

However, taking NSAIDs can lead to side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, and constipation. If taken for too long or in large doses, it can increase your risk of severe side effects such as bleeding or ulcers.

Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroid injections are another option for treating tendon lumps. These injections will generally help reduce inflammation and pain in the area. However, multiple corticosteroid injections may be necessary to maintain relief. Additionally, there is a risk of side effects, such as an increased risk of developing osteoporosis, high blood pressure, and increased swelling.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can help treat tendon lumps caused by overuse or injury. A physical therapist will help you perform exercises that will strengthen the muscles and tendons, reducing pain and improving function. These exercises could include stretching, range-of-motion, and strengthening exercises. Additionally, your physical therapist may recommend using tools such as straps or tape to secure the area and help relieve some of the pain.

Physical therapy can also help if the tendon lumps are caused by a repetitive use injury. Working with a physical therapist teaches you the best way to move and use your body to prevent further injury. If caused by a traumatic event, such as a fall or car accident, then physical therapy can also help restore the affected area’s range of motion and strength, which can also help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with tendon lumps.

Surgical Procedures

Surgery may be necessary if the tendon lumps result from a traumatic injury or an underlying medical condition. The type of surgery will depend on the severity and root cause of the lumps. It’s important to note that surgery should be considered a last resort. Surgery is expensive and can require lengthy recovery times. 

Surgery is also incredibly invasive, which means there will be a risk of complications. These complications could include blood clots, infection, and nerve damage. That being said, the following are some of the surgical options for treating tendon lumps:

Surgical Excision 

Surgical excision is a procedure where the lump is surgically removed from the tendon. This can be used to remove deep tissue lumps or those causing pain and swelling. 

Tendon Release

In some cases, doctors may recommend a tendon release to reduce the pressure and strain causing the lumps. This is typically done when the underlying cause of the lump is tightness in the tendon due to overuse or strain from an activity. During this procedure, your doctor will cut open part of your tendon so it can move more freely.

Tendon Repair

Tendon repair is a surgical procedure where the damaged tendon is repaired. This procedure can restore function and reduce pain in the affected area. It may involve removing scar tissue, re-aligning tissues, or transferring muscle or fascia so that it’s easier for the tendon to move without being impeded by scarring or tightness.