What type of condition is tendinitis?

Tendinitis is classified as an inflammatory condition. It occurs when the tendons, which are the fibrous tissues connecting muscles to bones, become irritated or inflamed due to repetitive movement or overuse. This inflammation can lead to pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area, making it difficult to move the joint or perform related activities. Understanding this helps clarify the nature of tendinitis as it distinguishes it from traumatic injuries like fractures, sprains, or strains, which involve different tissue types or injury mechanisms.