Tendinitis
Tendinitis is the inflammation or irritation of any one of the body’s tendons; however, tendinitis is most commonly experienced in the or around the shoulder, elbow, wrist, or heel.
Severe tendinitis can be extremely painful and debilitating ailment. Tendinitis can lead to a tendon rupture. A tendon rupture occurs when the tendon becomes so rigid and inflamed that its snaps or tears away from the bone. In many cases surgery is required to repair a ruptured tendon.
In most cases tendinitis is the result of repetitive motions that can aggravate or place increased stress on particular tendon. The common phrase “tennis elbow” refers to tendinitis in the elbow that is caused by the repetitive motion of swinging a tennis racket. Other sports or activities and even some occupations can also increase the risk of developing tendinitis. The use of certain types of antibiotics medications, like Levaquin have been shown to increase the risk of developing tendinitis.
Symptoms of Tendinitis
The symptoms of tendinitis include:
- Pain in the area of a tendon – this often described as a dull ache
- Slight to moderate swelling – swelling in a tendon area is often a sign of moderate to severe tendinitis
- Tenderness – tenderness is the area of tendon is often a warning sign that the tendon may be inflamed or irritated
Levaquin and Tendinitis
In May of 2008 the FDA ordered the makers of Levaquin and other similar medications to include the agency’s strongest warning to the label of the drugs. The “black box” warning highlights the drugs link to an increased risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture associated with the use of this class of medication, known as flouroquinolones.
If you or loved one has developed tendinitis or suffered a tendon rupture that you believe may have been cause by Levaquin, the Levaquin attorneys at Reich & Binstock can help.
Contact us for a free consultation and discussion about your legal rights with one of our Levaquin attorneys.