Tendon Ruptures

The structure of the arm and elbow is complex, and relies on a series of pulleys to allow you to move, lift, and throw. Muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints work together to give you strength and functional motion, whether you are playing softball, or picking up your infant. Since we tend to rely on our upper body so much for daily tasks, it’s common for injuries to occur, especially to the tendons. Tendons are thick, fibrous tissues that attach muscles to bones, and they bear incredible loads when we do certain activities, and can sometimes tear. Dr. Richards is 

When a tendon tears, either completely or partially, from the joint structure, it is known as a tendon rupture, and it can be a serious condition. While complete tendon tears are relatively rare, when they do happen, they mostly affect the rotator cuff area in the shoulder, or the biceps muscle at the front of the upper arm. Whether you have suffered a major tendon tear or just have tendonitis, Ogden hand and arm specialist Dr. Richards can help.

Things that may increase your risk of a tendon rupture include:

• Injection of medications and steroids into the tendon
• Gout or other inflammatory conditions
• Smoking
• Being over the age of 40
• Playing high-impact sports or working a physically demanding job

Most of the time with tendon tears of the shoulder or elbow; you will be able to tell that something is wrong. There are many different symptoms of a tendon tears and tendonitis we treat here for Ogden patients, including:

• Severe and sudden pain
• A popping or snapping sound/feeling
• Rapid bruising of the area
• Sudden loss of muscle strength and range of motion
• Physical deformity of the area

When you have suffered an extreme injury like a tendon tear, seek medical attention immediately. If you want to work with the best hand doctor in Utah, to help you regain your life after a tendon tear or tendonitis, give our office here in Ogden a call and schedule your appointment.