Spinal Tendonitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Picture of Dr. Pasquale X. Montesano
Dr. Pasquale X. Montesano

Principal Orthopedic Spine surgeon at Montesano Spine & Sport.

Spinal Tendonitis

inflammation or irritation of the tendons that support the spine

1. Causes of Spinal Tendonitis

Repetitive strain or overuse
Poor posture
Sudden increase in activity
Trauma or injury
Muscle imbalances or weak core
Underlying conditions
Symptoms of Spinal Tendonitis

Localized pain near the spine (neck, mid-back, or lower back)

Sharp, burning, or aching
Tenderness to palpation
Stiffness after inactivity

 Treatment Options

🔹 Conservative (First-Line)

  • Rest and activity modification

  • Ice/heat therapy
  • NSAIDs or topical anti-inflammatories

  • Physical therapy
    Massage or myofascial release

🔹 Advanced Treatments (if persistent)

  • Trigger point injections or tendon sheath steroid injections
  • Dry needling or acupuncture
  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections (off-label for chronic cases)
  • Bracing for short-term support in lumbar tendonitis