Tendinitis pain: Should I apply ice or heat? | Beacon Health System Tendinitis pain: Should I apply ice or heat? | Beacon Health System
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Home Health Library Frequently Asked Questions Tendinitis pain: Should I apply ice or heat?

Tendinitis pain: Should I apply ice or heat?

Ice is recommended for sudden injuries to tendons. But heat might be a better choice for chronic tendinitis caused by overuse.

Answer Section

Tendons are tough bands of fibrous tissue that connect muscles to bone. The name for an inflamed tendon is tendinitis. Tendinitis usually happens when repetitive motions, stress or repeat injuries irritate a tendon over time. It's common for tendinitis to affect joints such as the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees and heels.

After a sudden injury to a tendon, ice can ease pain and swelling. Ice the area for 15 to 20 minutes every 4 to 6 hours. And be sure to put a towel or cloth between the ice pack and your skin.

Heat may be more helpful for ongoing tendon pain, often called tendinopathy or tendinosis. Heat can boost blood flow, and that may help the tendon heal. Heat also can ease pain by relaxing muscles.

Last Updated: July 9th, 2024

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