Tendinopathy, Tendonitis and Tendon pain

Tendinopathy and tendonitis pain are broad terms used by physiotherapists and orthopaedic specialists to referrer to any type of tendon pain or weakness which results in movement dysfunction.  In short Tendinopathy and tendonitis is telling us there is a pathology (physiological or mechanical) of the tendon.

Tendons are strong cord like structures which attach muscle to bone. Characteristically tendons are capable of withstanding significant load and have great tensile strength.  It’s these characteristics that enable tendons to perform their tasks.   To transfer the energy from muscle contractions to create movement at the bodies joints. Rather like the cables of a pulley or on a crane.

There are important variations to be made when considering tendon injuries and how these injuries occur.

Some are the result of a trauma. Like an accident or during sport.  These usually manifest in tendon rupture or inflammation.  Other tendon injures happen due to excessive load.  Either gradually, as a result of constant use at low load like with RSI.  Or due to a singular event at a higher repetitive load.  Such as an unaccustomed long run, or completing a long heavy duty or effortful activity.

Either way the result is a tendon that can no longer sustain the normal load demand required during routine every day activity.  The tendon becomes painful and can fail to preform its role in normal movement.  Rest, pain medication or the application of ice can be useful, but more often than not any relief from tendon pain is short term.

At Life Physiotherapy we recognise the need for specialist knowledge and experience in managing the treatment, rehabilitation and reconditioning of tendinopathies.

Our goals of treatment go beyond pain relief and cure.  A big part of our treatment objective is the prevention of chronic reoccurring symptoms.  We achieve this basing our management approach on ups to date scientific research.  Tendon dysfunction responds best to graded exercise programs.  Targeting the reconditioning of tensile strength and ability to withstand repetitive load.  Maximising your successful return to daily activity and even sport.