Point Sports Therapy Clinic
digital
INJURY DATA
TENDONITIS and TENDINOPATHY
Tendonitis or tendinitis, is an inflammation of a tendon (connects a muscle to a bone) caused by overuse or trauma. This is commonly seen in the foot, calf, shoulder and knee in athletes.
Average recovery time -
2 to 4 weeks
Likelihood of reoccurrence -
High
Digital illustration of patella tendinitis generated by EVE.
Tendons are strong fibrous tissues that connect your muscles to your bone. Tendonitis is an inflammation of those tissues, it can be caused by repetitive actions, overuse or traumatic stress.
Tendonitis is not the only pathology to affect the tendons. Tendinopathy is a broad term used to describe degeneration in the tendon leading to pain and reduced flexibility. When the tendon is not inflamed this is called tendinosis and this is most common amongst athletes.
While tendonitis is more widely known, tendinopathy is thought to be more common and scientists believe that tendinopathy is what progresses into tendonitis.
Common sites of tendinitis in sports are...
Patellar- knee / jumpers knee
Achilles- back of ankle
Extensor - foot and hand
Peroneus brevis - high ankle
Gastrocnemius -calf
Triceps - back of upper arm
Biceps - front of upper arm
Quadriceps - front of thigh
Injuries that are similar include...
Wrist - De Quervain tenosynovitis
Lateral and medial epicondylalgia - Tennis and golfer's elbow
Signs & SYMPTOMs
Pain at site of injury, typically there are 3 pain sites
tendon insertion (where the tendon attaches to the bone)
mid-tendon (non-insertional tendinopathy)
musculotendinous junction (where the tendon attaches to the muscle)
Stiffness
Reduced range of motion
Inflammation and warmth
Swelling
Redness
Unable to weight bear
Pain and stiffness may get worse during the night
If you believe you have symptoms of tendinitis please seek guidance from a medical professional! - EVE
Additional illustrations.
Above shows an expected VAS (pain) score for this injury as calculated by EVE.
sports
This injury is commonly seen in sports such as...
- All sports
treatment & prevention
Follow these steps to treat this injury....
Extra information
Ice is most effective within the first 72 hours of injury; however, it may slow down initial healing.
Get in touch with a sports therapist to assist with your injury rehabilitation journey - enquire about shockwave therapy.
Stay tuned for our upcoming therapist database!
Reach the starting point of your recovery by purchasing the complete injury rehabilitation package at the Self-Help Shop!
Follow these steps to prevent this injury....
DOs
Ensure a gradual return to sport following an injury
Switch to low impact exercises such as yoga, walking, biking or swimming during the healing process
Exercise on soft ground if possible
Warm up throughly before commencing any exercise
Cool down completely after engaging in vigorous activities
Ensure proper fitting shoes that provide adequate support for your feet; consider using insoles if needed.
Replace your footwear when they show signs of wear and tear
Use proper technique while engaging in sports - consider having someone observe you to remind you
Use sports equipment properly and in accordance with its intended purpose
Allow adequate rest between sessions and incorporate regular breaks in activities that put significant strain in the area
Visit EVE's Top Tips to prevent injury page!
(link below)
DON'Ts
Steer clear of heavy lifting where possible, or ask for assistance
Avoid playing sports if you are already fatigued
Minimise strenuous use and repetitive movements of the affected area - take regular breaks if unavoidable
Avoid increasing your activity levels too rapidly
Restrict your sporting activities until fully healed
Do not ignore your pain/symptoms! Address them promptly for a better recovery
Visit EVE's Top Tips to prevent injury page!
(link below)
The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.