Tendinopathy vs Tendonitis
Tendinopathy vs Tendonitis vs Tendinosis?
What do these terms mean?
All of these terms sound very similar but describe slightly different things. It can be confusing! You may have heard some of these terms to describe overuse conditions like tennis elbow, Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis. Let’s go through these terms and what they mean for your recovery.
Tendon: This is what connects muscles to your bones and is a common site for pain and overuse injuries.
Tendinopathy: This is an umbrella term for problems with a tendon. It is the most general of the terms.
Tendonitis: This term describes short term/acute inflammation of a tendon.
Tenosynovitis: This term is a little different but describes the inflammation of the sheath that is around some of the tendons. This is common at the thumb.
Tendinosis: This term describes degeneration and build up of scar tissue in the tendon due to chronic inflammation from repetitive overuse.
In the past we have used terms like tendonitis, but with research we have discovered that these chronic overuse injuries are more than just localised inflammation.
Tendinosis is now the preferred term for chronic injuries as it describes scar tissue building and degeneration from long term inflammation. However, a lot of injuries are still named after tendinitis when most overuse injuries should be classified as tendinosis.
Physiotherapy Program
This is why your physiotherapy program often includes gradual strength training, shockwave, and progression through activities like running or walking. These activities will help repair the scar tissue and allow for more normal alignment of the tissues. This allows your tendon to heal, and you can return to your normal activities. It is important to follow the progressions and not do too much even though you are feeling better as it can set you back. Progress can be slow but be patient as we will get you back to the activities you want to be doing.
Here at Ballsbridge Physiotherapy in Dublin 4 we can assess your chronic tendon injuries that have been bothering you for a while. We will look at your pain, determine any muscle weaknesses or muscle tightness and provide an individualised plan to reduce your pain and get you back to your normal activities. This plan may include progressive strength training, massage, braces or orthotics, shockwave, activity modification and possibly stretches. Contact us today if you have any questions or would like to book an appointment!
References and Resources
University of North Carolina Orthopedics: What are tendonitis and tendinosis
Physiotherapy
We specialise in the treatment and prevention of injuries and conditions. If you are suffering with any health aliments that you feel we could help you with, get in touch today. We provide treatment for a wide age range from 9 years to 90 years old.