Definition

A condition where the sheath surrounding a tendon becomes inflamed, often causing pain and swelling, especially in areas like the wrist due to repetitive movements.

Example

After weeks of typing without breaks, she developed tenosynovitis in her wrist.

Conversation

I’ve been feeling some pain in my wrist lately.

Oh no, that sounds uncomfortable!

Yeah, I think it might be tenosynovitis from all the typing I do.

You should definitely see a doctor about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tenosynovitis is formed from "tenon" (from Greek "tenon", meaning tendon) and "synovium" (from Latin "synovia", meaning the lubricating fluid in joints) and "-itis" (meaning inflammation). The word describes the inflammation of the tendon sheath, which is the protective covering around a tendon that contains synovial fluid.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tendon' ('tenon') being surrounded by a protective 'fluid' ('synovium') that is 'inflamed' ('-itis') — this helps you remember that tenosynovitis refers to the inflammation of the tendon sheath.

Visually Confused Words