Tendons are the tough cords of tissue that attach muscles to bones. They help your muscles move your bones. Tendinitis means inflammation of a tendon. It causes pain and tenderness near a joint. It usually occurs in the shoulders, elbows, knees, hips, heels or wrists. Depending on where it happens, it may have a special name, such as tennis elbow.
Injuries and overuse are common causes of tendinitis. Cross-training, stretching and decreasing your intensity when you exercise might help prevent tendinitis. Certain diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, also can cause it.
Sources
MedlinePlus - Tendinitis