Scott,

Just got home and saw your post - bummer!. Tendonitis is not at all unusual for individuals who play piano and stringed instruments, especially if they have a grueling schedule.

Essentially, the tendon becomes inflamed, swells, and often the tendon sheath is involved. The inflammatory process is exacerbated when you continue to do what caused tendonitis to begin with. This can lead to fusing of the tendon within the sheath, thus requiring surgical intervention and a tendon release procedure. Heavy equipment operators, such as someone using a jack-hammer, hammering nails, body/fender workers, etc..., frequently experience fusing of the tendon and sheath.

In your case, you are probably not anywhere near that point, at least I hope not. Simply giving those hands a couple weeks rest often is all that's needed to achieve relief. The administration of anti-inflammitory drugs, such as Prednisone, which is a potent steroid, often provides instant relief, but you still must give those hands a rest or the problem will eventually worsen. Soaking your hands in a basin filled with warm water and Epson salt a couple times a day will also bring about some quick relief. I've seen some piano players resort to wearing form-fitting, white, cotton gloves while performing, claiming it lessons the pressure on the tendons, while not hampering their playing technique. I saw Liberace playing while wearing gloves when he had a TV show.

Hope this helps, and please get well soon,

Gary