Expert Tendon Injury Treatment in Mount Pleasant, SC
If you are experiencing persistent pain, swelling, weakness, or difficulty moving after a tendon injury, prompt evaluation can help prevent further damage and support a faster recovery. Blake Ohlson, M.D. is a fellowship-trained orthopedic and regenerative medicine specialist providing comprehensive care for tendon injuries in Mount Pleasant, SC. Whether your injury developed gradually from repetitive use or occurred suddenly during sports, work, or an accident, Dr. Ohlson creates personalized treatment plans focused on restoring strength, mobility, and function.
Tendon injuries can affect many areas of the body, including the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, ankle, and Achilles tendon. Using a thorough clinical evaluation and advanced diagnostic imaging when necessary, Dr. Ohlson identifies the severity of the injury and recommends the most appropriate treatment, ranging from conservative therapies and regenerative medicine options to surgical repair when indicated. His goal is to relieve pain, promote healing, and help patients safely return to work, sports, and everyday activities.
What are Tendon Injuries?
Tendons are powerful fibrous cords which connect muscle to bone. When you overstretch a tendon, it can rupture (tear) completely or partially. This rupturing of the tendon due to overstretching is known as a tendon injury. You typically feel a snap or popping sensation when you rupture your tendon followed by a sharp pain which is likely to affect your mobility and muscle function. Surgery is often regarded as the best treatment.
What are the Causes of Tendon Injuries?
Tendon injuries basically occur due to gradual wear and tear of the tendon from aging or overuse. People who perform repetitive actions as part of their jobs, sports, or activities of daily living are more prone to damaging a tendon. A tendon injury can occur gradually or suddenly if the tendon has weakened over time.
What are the Symptoms of Tendon Injuries?
Some of the symptoms associated with tendon injuries are:
- Tenderness or pain near or at a joint, particularly around a wrist, elbow, shoulder, or ankle
- Thickening or swelling of the tendon near the joint
- Stiffness which restricts the joint movement
- Crepitus or a crunchy sound feeling on using the tendon
How are Tendon Injuries Diagnosed?
To diagnose a tendon injury, your doctor will review your symptoms and medical history, perform a physical examination, and order certain diagnostic tests.
Physical examination will typically include evaluation of passive and active range of motion along with resisted movements.
Diagnostic tests such as x-ray, ultrasound, or MRI may be suggested by your doctor if symptoms are severe and do not improve with treatment and to help determine tendon tears, thickening, swelling, as well as ligament, cartilage and muscle injury.
What are the Treatments Options Associated with Tendon Injuries?
Some of the common treatment options for tendon injuries include:
- Rest and elevation of the affected tendon
- Application of heat and ice
- Use of a compression bandage on the affected area to reduce swelling
- Use of medications such as pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs
- Range of motion exercises to improve mobility and strengthen muscles
- Assistive devices such as braces, splints, or cane
- Corticosteroid injections
- Physiotherapy
- Surgery
- Abstaining from tobacco as smoking delays tissue and wound healing
How can Tendon Injuries be Prevented?
Some of the steps you can follow to lower your chances of developing a tendon injury include:
- Stretches and warm-ups before exercises
- Keeping physically fit through regular exercise and building muscle tone
- Avoiding overuse and repetitive motions
- Sitting in a proper posture while working at a desk
- Moving around periodically without remaining in the same position for long
- Using proper equipment during sports activities and at work
Why Choose Dr. Blake Ohlson for Tendon Injuries in Mount Pleasant, SC?
Choosing the right orthopedic specialist is essential for achieving the best possible recovery from a tendon injury. Dr. Blake Ohlson combines advanced orthopedic expertise with an individualized approach to patient care, ensuring each treatment plan is tailored to your specific injury, activity level, and long-term goals.
Patients throughout Mount Pleasant and the surrounding Lowcountry trust Dr. Ohlson because he offers:
- Fellowship-trained expertise in orthopedic and regenerative medicine
- Comprehensive evaluation of acute and chronic tendon injuries
- Advanced imaging and accurate diagnosis
- Personalized non-surgical treatment plans whenever appropriate
- Regenerative medicine options, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for selected patients
- Expert surgical treatment for complex or complete tendon tears
- Customized rehabilitation programs designed to restore strength, flexibility, and function
- Compassionate care focused on helping patients return safely to their active lifestyles
Whether your tendon injury affects your ability to work, exercise, or enjoy everyday activities, Dr. Ohlson is committed to providing comprehensive orthopedic care using evidence-based treatment options.
Tendon Injuries FAQs
What are the most common tendon injuries?
Common tendon injuries include Achilles tendon tears, rotator cuff injuries, biceps tendon injuries, patellar tendon injuries, quadriceps tendon tears, tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, and wrist tendon injuries.
Can a tendon injury heal without surgery?
Many partial tendon injuries respond well to conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, bracing, anti-inflammatory medications, and regenerative medicine therapies. Complete tendon ruptures or severe tears often require surgical repair to restore normal function.
How do I know if I have torn a tendon?
Signs of a tendon tear may include a sudden popping sensation, sharp pain, swelling, bruising, weakness, difficulty moving the affected joint, or loss of strength. An orthopedic evaluation is important for an accurate diagnosis.
How long does it take to recover from a tendon injury?
Recovery varies depending on the location and severity of the injury. Mild tendon injuries may improve within several weeks, while surgical repairs often require several months of rehabilitation before returning to full activity.
Can repetitive activities cause tendon injuries?
Yes. Repetitive movements at work, during sports, or throughout daily activities can gradually weaken tendons and lead to inflammation, degeneration, or tears over time. Proper conditioning, stretching, and technique can help reduce the risk.
When should I see an orthopedic specialist for tendon pain?
You should seek evaluation if your pain persists for more than a few days, limits your ability to perform daily activities, is associated with swelling or weakness, or follows a sudden injury with a popping sensation or loss of function.
Schedule a Tendon Injury Consultation in Mount Pleasant, SC
Persistent tendon pain should not prevent you from enjoying an active lifestyle. Whether you have a recent sports injury, a work-related tendon problem, or chronic pain caused by overuse, Dr. Blake Ohlson offers comprehensive tendon injury diagnosis and treatment in Mount Pleasant, SC. From conservative therapies and regenerative medicine to advanced surgical care when necessary, he is dedicated to helping you recover safely and regain your mobility.
Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and learn more about your personalized treatment options for tendon injuries in Mount Pleasant, SC.