Understanding Tendinopathy, Tendonosis, and Tendonitis: What’s the Difference?
We have already covered tendon problem in previous blogs, but for our next mini-series we would like to discuss the difference between tendon-related terminology and common tendon injuries that we see and treat as physiotherapists.
When it comes to tendon injuries, the terms “tendinopathy,” “tendonosis,” and “tendonitis” are often used interchangeably. However, these terms represent different stages and mechanisms of tendon damage. In today’s post, I hope to discuss tendon terminology and clarify the implications on tendon health.
Tendinopathy: The Broad Term for Tendon Problems
Tendinopathy is an umbrella term used to describe any type of tendon injury or dysfunction. It encompasses both acute (new) and chronic (old) conditions, and it doesn’t specify the exact type of damage to the tendon
Tendinopathy can occur due to overuse, age-related changes, or repetitive strain, and it is common among athletes and individuals who engage in activities that put stress on their tendons, like running or weightlifting.
Tendonitis: The Acute Inflammation Stage
Tendonitis specifically refers to the acute inflammation of a tendon, usually caused by overuse or sudden injury. Tendonitis can occur at any age and is more common in people who push their tendons beyond their limits without allowing for proper rest or recovery.
Tendonosis: The Chronic Degenerative Stage
Tendonosis refers to chronic degeneration of a tendon, which usually involves the breakdown of fibers within the tendon, and can be due to repetitive strain or long-term overuse. In this case, inflammation is not the primary issue. Instead, the tendon fibers are damaged, weakened, and less able to withstand further stress.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between these three terms can help with an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment for your tendon pain. In our next post, we will discuss the main causes and symptoms for each of these three tendon terms discussed today.
If you experience persistent pain in your tendons, consult with one of the physiotherapists at Kamloops Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre who can appropriately identify the root cause of your issues and help you begin your journey to recovery. This blog post was written by physiotherapist Jacob Coelho. To book an appointment with Jacob or one of our other experienced therapists, call 250-314-0788 or book online HERE.