A tendon is a type of soft tissue found in various locations throughout the body, its role is to connect muscles to bone. Tendinopathy is the term used when a patient is describing pain in the region of a tendon. Most common cause of tendinopathy is overuse, often it is seen after a sudden increase in training load or use of the muscle. For example, an individual who isn’t used to running and begins running long distances 6 times a week or an athlete returning to training after the off-season.

Patients who are suffering from tendon-related pain report pain localised over the tendon its self when pressure is applied and whenever a lot of load is placed through it. Common locations where Tendinopathy occurs is the Achilles, Patella, rotator cuff and outside of the elbow. It usually is more painful after periods of rest. It then eases off and gets worse the more you use it.

Thankfully lots of research has shown physiotherapy to have positive rehabilitation outcomes for various types of tendinopathies. Depending on the stage of the injury the type of treatment will. vary. In the early stages, the main focus will be to de-load the affected area, commonly done by decreasing the amount or type of exercise being done and increasing the rest between sessions. The next step is to maintain strength and help the tissue repair through isometric, then eccentric, then concentric, and lastly plyometric exercises.

For foot and lower limb-based tendinopathies, custom orthotics can be used. Its important to stop the tendon from stretching. Shockwave can also be used in order to increase the speed of healing.

If this information sounds familiar contact us today to book in to see one of our physio’s.