Tendinopathies

What are Tendinopathies?

Tendons are tough cord-like tissues made up of collagen protein that connect your muscles to your bones. Tendinopathy is a breakdown of collagen in the tendon resulting in pain along with reduced range of motion and flexibility. Tendinopathy can occur in any of your tendons, but it is most common around your elbows, shoulders, wrists, heels, and knees. Some of the commonly affected tendons are:

Patellar tendon
Achilles tendon
Rotator cuff tendons
Hamstring tendons

What are the Causes of Tendinopathies?

Common causes of tendinopathies include:

Sudden stress on the tendons
Overuse of the tendons
Lack of muscle tone
Aging
Repetitive movements

What are the Risk Factors of Tendinopathies?

Some of the factors that could enhance the risk of developing tendinopathies include:

Muscle weakness or lack of flexibility
Use of poor technique and incorrect equipment
Being overweight
Being diabetic
Unaccustomed activity

What are the Symptoms of Tendinopathies?

Some of the symptoms associated with tendinopathies are:

Tenderness or pain near or at a joint, particularly around a wrist, elbow, shoulder or ankle
Thickening or swelling of the tendon near the joint
Stiffness which restricts the joint movement
Crepitus or a crunchy sound feeling on using the tendon
Loss of strength

How are Tendinopathies Diagnosed?

To diagnose tendinopathy, your doctor will review your symptoms and medical history, perform a physical examination, and order certain diagnostic tests.

Physical examination will typically include evaluation of range of motion along with resisted movements.

Diagnostic tests such as x-ray may be suggested if symptoms are severe and do not improve with treatment and ultrasound or an MRI may be suggested to help identify tendon tears, thickening, swelling, as well as ligament, cartilage and muscle injury.

What are the Treatment Options for Tendinopathies?

Some of the common known treatment options for tendinopathies include:

Rest and elevation of the affected tendon
Application of heat and ice
Use of a compression bandage on the affected area to reduce swelling
Use of medications such as pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs
Range of motion exercises to improve mobility and strengthen muscles
Assistive devices such as slings, braces, splints, or cane
Corticosteroid injections
Physiotherapy
Surgery
Abstaining from tobacco as smoking delays tissue and wound healing

How can Tendinopathies be Prevented?

Some of the steps you can follow to lower your chances of developing tendinopathies include:

Stretches and warm-ups before exercise
Keeping physically fit through regular exercise and improving muscle tone
Avoiding overuse and repetitive motions
Sitting in a proper posture while working at a desk
Moving around periodically without remaining in the same position for long
Using proper equipment during sports activities and at work