Whoops - it's spelled "tendinitis." I found a very simple definition and translation into several languages (but not Swedish) at this page.

One of my responsibilities in my previous job was to counsel people on how to prevent and care for repetitive stress injuries, including carpal tunnel syndrome and conditions related to it. So here's where I get up on my soap box about wrist braces. They have about the same effect as tying a big yellow ribbon around your wrist, unless you rely on them to prevent movement. A brace or a ribbon will remind you to be careful and not bend the wrist. If you believe the brace is preventing forceful movement, you could do further damage. Wearing a rigid one will keep you from bending the wrist, but will also lead to sore spots and eventually muscle atrophy. (I'm talking about wearing one for work or play, not while you sleep.)

In my exalted, miss know-it-all opinion, the most important advice people have given you is 1) see your doctor, 2) play in a way that doesn't cause more pain, and 3) see your doctor. OK, I'm off the soap box.

Someone once told me that getting a lot of cortisone shots over a period of time can break down cartilege. She is a veterinarian who said it's common in racehorses. I had never heard that before. I still believe the simple things are best. "Doc, it hurts when I do this." Doctor: "Well, don't do that!"

Anders, thanks for your offer of help with chords and tuning, but I'm afraid I'm in the process of completely re-learning how to play. I have Pete Seeger's book, and a book of chords somewhere around here.

Sorry for being so long-winded, folks.