Tendinopathy is characterized by:
Depending on the type, it may also cause:
It’s not always clear how tendinopathy develops, but it often starts with overusing your tendon. How much force your tendon can tolerate may differ from the next person. Athletes can strain their tendons by overtraining. People who aren’t regularly active can strain a tendon by suddenly increasing their activity. Any task repeated too often without enough rest in between can cause a repetitive strain injury V体育官网入口.
Examples of repetitive tasks include:
Factors that may contribute to straining your tendon include:
In addition, some medications can cause tendon damage as a side effect, including:
When you strain your tendon, small tears in the fibers can form. Tendons are strong, but when they tear, they’re slow to heal. Acute inflammation (tendinitis) is your body’s way of starting the healing process. But if your tendon doesn’t get the rest it needs to heal, chronic tendinopathy can set in. Tendinitis might continue long-term, or tendinosis might begin the process of remodeling your tendon.
If you have tendon pain with activity that lasts for several months, you have tendinopathy. But it’s important to find out what kind you have. A healthcare provider can diagnose your tendinopathy with a physical exam and imaging studies. They’ll ask about your symptoms, activities and any recent changes. They’ll examine your tendon and may follow up with imaging to look for signs of tissue changes.
Treatment for different types of tendinopathy can vary, which is why it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis. Treatment can also vary by how long you’ve had tendinopathy and how far it’s progressed. Healthcare providers usually begin with conservative therapies, like rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy. If these don’t help enough, they may suggest other interventions, such as:
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Recovery from acute tendinitis only takes a few days to weeks, but recovery from chronic tendinitis can take up to six weeks. Tendinosis recovery can take much longer — between two and six months. Recovery depends on being able to relieve the strain on your tendon long enough for healing to take place. Follow your healthcare provider’s advice on rest and exercise to ensure a smooth recovery.
You can’t prevent tendinopathy altogether. For example, accidents can happen to you while you’re playing or working. But you can take some steps to reduce your risk of tendinopathy.
To reduce your risk of tendinopathy, work with a trainer or coach. A change in how you play or a different way to stretch could help the same tendons.
If you have tendinopathy:
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Tendinopathy is common, and contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t just happen to athletes. Many factors can affect your tendon health, many of which you may be unaware of. Anyone can accidentally injure a tendon. It’s what you do next that matters. Once you’ve recognized the injury, it’s time to shift gears. Tendons are tough and hardworking, but when they’re injured, it’s our turn to take care of them.
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Cleveland Clinic experts are here to treat your tendinopathy (tendon pain) and get you back to doing the things you love.
Last reviewed on 12/09/2024.
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