Tendinopathy is a term used to describe pain in a diseased tendon as a result of overuse. Tendon pain was previously referred to as tendinitis, presumably as a result of inflammation.
More recent microscopic/histologic examination of diseased tendons show no evidence of inflammatory cells but instead increased cellularity and disorganization of collagen fibers.
Tendinopathy can result from an imbalance in catabolic/anabolic processes associated with overuse. Macroscopic changes include tendon thickening, fibrillar disorganization, and neovascularization. These findings can be easily identified on ultrasound.
Traditional treatments of rest, nonsteroidal antiinflammatory medications (NSAIDs) and periodic corticosteroid injections were aimed at controlling inflammation. Not surprisingly, these treatments are mostly ineffective because inflammation is not the problem. Not to mention that intra-tendon corticosteroid injections can lead to rupture.
Current treatment options include eccentric strengthening programs, Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT), Platelet Rich Plasma, Ultrasound guided Percutaneous needle tenotomy (Tenex), or Open Surgical Tenotomy. We’ll dive into the details of above treatment options in the future.
If you think you’re experiencing symptoms related to tendinopathy such as lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow), Medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow), Achilles Tendinopathy, Plantar Fasciitis, Patellar tendinopathy, please stop by for a detailed physical and diagnostic ultrasound examination.