Tendinopathy is a term that encompasses a range of conditions affecting tendons, the fibrous tissues that connect muscles to bones. While it often manifests as pain and stiffness, understanding its underlying causes and exploring treatment options can significantly improve quality of life for those affected. Tendinopathy refers to any injury or dysfunction of a tendon, which may include tendinitis (inflammation of the tendon) and tendinosis (degeneration of the tendon without inflammation).
Tendinopathy’s are related to load and capacity, specifically the amount of load a tissue can withstand without incurring damage or dysfunction. Injuries occur when the load placed on a tendon exceeds it capacity. Common overuse injuries occur from physical activity or repetitive workplace positioning. Tendinopathies can occur in many different areas of the body. Common injuries you may have heard of include: tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, jumper’s knee, achilles tendinopathy.
Causes of Tendinopathy:
- Overuse or repetitive motion
- Increased training load
- Age
- Anatomical misalignment
- Strength or flexibility issues
- Chronic health conditions
Symptoms:
- Localized pain, often worsened by activity
- Stiffness, especially after rest
- Swelling or thickening of the tendon
- Reduced range of motion
Treatment Options:
- Comprehensive Assessment: Evaluates medical history, lifestyle, and injury mechanics to identify contributing factors.
- Manual Adjustments: Aligns the spine and joints to improve function and reduce stress on tendons.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Techniques like myofascial release to alleviate muscle tightness and improve blood flow.
- Rehabilitation Exercises: Strengthening the tendon and surrounding muscles.
- Education and Ergonomics: Teaching proper body mechanics and recommending ergonomic tools to reduce strain.
- Shockwave Therapy: Uses acoustic waves to stimulate healing, reduce pain, and improve mobility.
- Laser Therapy: Low-level lasers promote healing, reduce inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair.
If you're experiencing tendon pain or stiffness, early treatment is key to preventing further injury. At Brentwood Chiropractic, our team is here to provide personalized care to help you heal and regain mobility. Call us today to book an assessment and take the first step toward feeling your best!
