Rheumatoid arthritis and tendonitis: what to know

Tendons connect muscle to bone and help move joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect the tendon sheath or nearby joints, producing pain with movement, swelling, stiffness or weakness. Repetitive loading, a new activity or poor mechanics can also irritate a tendon. The location, tenderness, movement pattern and presence of joint swelling help a clinician distinguish these problems.

Hand and wrist tendon problems deserve attention because inflammation can interfere with grip, finger movement and everyday tasks. Sudden loss of the ability to straighten or bend a finger is not typical soreness and should be assessed promptly.

Reduce the specific activity that triggers pain without keeping the whole limb still for long periods. Use gentle range-of-motion exercises and a gradual return to loading when advised by a clinician or physiotherapist. Note whether pain follows a repeated task, occurs with joint swelling or appears with morning stiffness. Prescribed rheumatoid arthritis treatment and suitable anti-inflammatory medication may address inflammation; do not self-adjust medicines.

Arrange assessment when tendon pain persists, grip is weakening, swelling is increasing or symptoms interfere with work or sleep. Seek urgent care for a sudden pop followed by loss of movement, a rapidly swollen hot joint, fever, or severe pain after an injury.

Is the pain coming from a tendon, tendon sheath or joint? Which movements should I limit? Would physiotherapy or a splint help? Does my rheumatoid arthritis treatment need review?