Tendons play a crucial role in movement, connecting muscles to bones and allowing joints to function properly. When tendons experience repetitive stress, overuse, or fail to heal properly from an acute injury, they can become chronically damaged, leading to chronic tendon injuries. These conditions often cause persistent pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, making daily activities or athletic performance difficult. At Advanced Orthopedics, our specialists provide expert diagnosis and treatment to help patients recover and regain function.
Chronic tendon injuries develop over time due to prolonged strain, repetitive movements, or incomplete healing of a previous tendon injury. Unlike acute tendon injuries, which occur suddenly (such as a tear or rupture), chronic tendon injuries progress gradually and often result from overuse or aging-related degeneration.
Common chronic tendon injuries include:
Tendinosis refers to degeneration of a tendon due to chronic stress and inadequate healing. Unlike tendinitis, tendinosis is not primarily caused by inflammation but rather by tiny, repetitive injuries to the tendon that lead to tissue breakdown.
Tendinitis is the inflammation of a tendon, often caused by repetitive motion or excessive strain. It typically results in pain, swelling, and tenderness near a joint. If left untreated, tendinitis can develop into tendinosis, leading to long-term tendon damage.
Over time, microtears can form in a tendon due to repetitive overuse. If not properly treated, these tears can worsen, leading to weakness and a higher risk of complete rupture.
Chronic tendon injuries can occur in any tendon in the body, but they are most common in areas subject to frequent use and strain, including:
The symptoms of chronic tendon injuries often develop gradually and worsen over time. Common signs include:
✔ Persistent Pain – Aching or sharp pain in the affected tendon, especially during movement.
✔ Stiffness & Weakness – Reduced range of motion and difficulty performing daily activities.
✔ Swelling & Thickening – The tendon may appear swollen or feel thickened due to scar tissue formation.
✔ Tenderness – Pain or discomfort when pressing on the affected area.
✔ Increased Pain with Activity – Symptoms worsen with repetitive use or overuse of the affected tendon.
Chronic tendon injuries often result from a combination of factors, including:
At Advanced Orthopedics, we take a comprehensive approach to treating chronic tendon injuries, focusing on pain relief, healing, and restoring function.
🔹 Rest & Activity Modification – Reducing repetitive strain on the tendon and adjusting activity levels to allow healing.
🔹 Physical Therapy – A structured rehabilitation program to strengthen surrounding muscles, improve flexibility, and correct movement patterns.
🔹 Eccentric Strengthening Exercises – Targeted exercises designed to rebuild tendon strength and reduce pain.
🔹 Bracing or Splinting – Using supportive devices to offload stress from the tendon during healing.
🔹 Pain Management – Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce pain and swelling.
🔹 Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy – A regenerative treatment that uses the patient’s own platelets to promote tendon healing and tissue repair.
🔹 Shockwave Therapy – A non-invasive therapy that stimulates tendon healing through controlled sound waves.
In cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical intervention may be considered to repair or remove damaged tendon tissue. Surgical options may include:
🔹 Tendon Debridement – Removing degenerated tendon tissue to promote healing.
🔹 Tendon Repair – Suturing or reinforcing partial tendon tears.
🔹 Tendon Reconstruction – Rebuilding severely damaged tendons using grafts or nearby tendon tissue.
Recovery from a chronic tendon injury depends on the severity of the condition and the chosen treatment approach. Rehabilitation typically includes:
🔹 Gradual Strengthening & Flexibility Exercises – To restore function and prevent re-injury.
🔹 Progressive Return to Activity – Carefully increasing activity levels under the guidance of a specialist.
🔹 Ongoing Maintenance Therapy – Continued exercises and preventative strategies to reduce the risk of recurrence.
While some chronic tendon conditions develop due to natural aging, many can be prevented with proper care. Tips for prevention include:
✔ Gradual Progression – Avoid sudden increases in activity or intensity.
✔ Proper Warm-Up & Stretching – Helps prepare tendons for movement and reduces strain.
✔ Strength Training – Strengthening muscles around tendons provides additional support.
✔ Good Biomechanics & Technique – Using proper form during exercise or physical activity can reduce stress on tendons.
✔ Adequate Recovery – Allowing time for rest and recovery between strenuous activities.
✔ Supportive Footwear & Equipment – Ensuring proper support for activities that put stress on tendons.
If you’re struggling with persistent tendon pain or stiffness, the experts at Advanced Orthopedics are here to help. Our team specializes in advanced, non-surgical, and surgical treatments to help you recover and regain mobility.
📞 Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey to pain relief and healing!
