A healthcare professional may have told you that you have tendinopathy, tenosynovitis, tendinosis, or tendonitis. These terms can be confusing, but they all describe different forms of tendon irritation or injury, often caused by changes in load.
In our blog we discuss what the different terms mean, what causes tendon irritation and treatment options.
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Tendinopathy
This is the umbrella term for a tendon that has become irritated due to overuse or overloading. The collagen fibres within the tendon become disorganised, which can lead to pain and reduced function. -
Tenosynovitis
This refers to inflammation of the synovium – the sheath surrounding the tendon. It often presents with swelling, redness, and warmth around the area.
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Tendonitis
Tendonitis refers to acute inflammation of tendons. Like tenosynovitis, it can appear red, swollen, and warm to touch. -
Tendinosis
Tendinosis describes chronic or degenerative changes within the tendon. This usually develops over a longer period and may not involve obvious inflammation.
What causes tendon irritation?
Both underloading and overloading a tendon can contribute to pain and inflammation. Optimal loading through tailored exercise is key to recovery.
Common diagnoses include:
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) – located on the outside of the elbow
- Rotator cuff tendinopathy – located in the shoulder
- Achilles tendinopathy – located by the back of the heel/ankle
- Gluteal tendinopathy – located at the side of the hip
- Hamstring tendinopathy – located at the back of the thigh
- Patella tendinopathy – located below the kneecap
Initial treatment
Exercise
Exercises will depend on the tendon involved, and progression should be gradual to prevent flare-ups. These may include:
- Isometric exercises (to help reduce pain)
- Heavy slow concentric or eccentric loading
- Functional strengthening
- Plyometric exercises (in later stages)
Load Management
Adjusting your activity levels is often one of the most important steps. This may mean reducing or temporarily stopping activities such as running or jumping until symptoms settle.
Anti-inflammatory Medication
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories can help reduce pain when inflammation is present. Always follow advice on safe use.
In summary
Although the terminology may seem confusing, tendon pain is common and highly treatable with the right exercises and load.
If you’re experiencing tendon pain, a structured rehabilitation plan can make all the difference – and help you get back to the activities you love. If you would like to speak to a physiotherapist then please get in touch. Book an appointment with a physio online.
