Tenderness (medicine)

Tenderness is a symptom of various medical conditions that causes discomfort or pain when an affected area is touched. It can be a sign of an ailment or condition, such as an infection or inflammation. Tenderness can be localized to one area, or it can be widespread.

Causes

Tenderness can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

• Infection: This can cause tenderness in the affected area.
• Inflammation: This can cause tenderness in the affected area.
• Injury: This can cause tenderness in the affected area.
• Disease: Certain diseases can cause tenderness.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of tenderness is usually made through a physical examination. The doctor will touch or press on various parts of the body to determine if there is any discomfort or pain. If tenderness is found, further tests may be needed to determine the cause.

Treatment

The treatment for tenderness depends on the underlying cause. If the cause is an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. If the cause is inflammation, anti-inflammatory medications may be used. If the cause is an injury, rest and physical therapy may be recommended.

See also

• Pain
• Inflammation
• Infection