Inflamed Tendons

Tendons are rope or cord-like structures which connect muscles to bones in order to work the joints of the body. When any group of tendons are overused microscopic tears can result, leading to inflammation. Even the slightest contraction of the muscle can then result in further irritation.
 
This tender swelling is usually referred to as tendinitis and more commonly affects the hand, wrist, elbows and shoulders, though it may occur at any joint in the body.
 
At certain points where they insert into the fingers the tendons are wrapped in a protective sheath lined with a lubricating (synovial) fluid. This fluid can thicken and become more viscous as the gliding surfaces of the tendon and the sheath become inflamed and rough through overuse. This condition is known as Tenosynovitis.