Tendon Pain is More Common Than You Think
Tendon pain is a common issue that affects people of all ages and activity levels. Whether you’re a professional athlete, a weekend jogger, or simply someone with a physically demanding job, tendon pain can interfere with your daily life. At Advantage Physiotherapy, we help patients understand the root causes of tendon pain and offer targeted treatment plans designed to relieve symptoms and restore function.
In this blog, we’ll explore what tendon pain is, the most frequent causes, and how physiotherapy can offer effective and lasting relief.
What is Tendon Pain?
Tendon pain refers to discomfort, tenderness, or inflammation in the tendons—fibrous connective tissues that attach muscle to bone. This pain can develop gradually over time due to overuse or suddenly due to an acute injury. Common areas affected include the shoulder, elbow, knee, ankle, and wrist.
The term tendinopathy is often used to describe chronic tendon pain, while tendinitis refers to inflammation of the tendon. Although both terms are used interchangeably, tendinopathy is now more commonly used to reflect the degenerative changes often seen in long-term tendon issues.
Common Causes of Tendon Pain
Tendon pain can develop for a variety of reasons. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial in determining the most effective course of treatment.
1. Overuse and Repetitive Strain
Repetitive movements, particularly those involving force or awkward positioning, can put excessive stress on a tendon. This is often seen in sports such as tennis, running, or weightlifting, and in occupations involving manual labour.
2. Sudden Injury
A sudden increase in activity or a single traumatic incident—such as lifting something heavy or falling—can lead to acute tendon damage, resulting in inflammation and pain.
3. Poor Biomechanics
Issues with posture, joint alignment, or muscular imbalances can contribute to tendon strain. For instance, poor foot mechanics may lead to Achilles tendon pain, while weak hip muscles can increase stress on the knee tendons.
4. Age-Related Degeneration
As we age, tendons lose elasticity and strength, making them more susceptible to injury. This can result in tendon pain even during regular activities that were previously tolerated.
5. Underlying Medical Conditions
Certain conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and high cholesterol can increase the likelihood of developing tendon problems due to changes in tendon structure and healing capacity.
Symptoms of Tendon Pain
Recognising the signs of tendon pain early can help prevent more serious complications. Common symptoms include:
- Pain that worsens with movement
- Localised tenderness or swelling
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity
- A grating or cracking sensation when moving the joint
- Weakness in the affected limb
If left untreated, tendon pain can become chronic and may result in reduced mobility and quality of life.
Effective Treatments for Tendon Pain
At Advantage Physiotherapy, we take a personalised approach to tendon pain treatment. Our goal is not just to relieve symptoms but to address the root cause and promote long-term recovery.
1. Physiotherapy and Exercise Prescription
Targeted physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for tendon pain. A structured rehabilitation plan can help restore strength, flexibility, and tendon resilience. We design tailored exercise programmes that gradually load the tendon to promote healing without aggravating symptoms.
2. Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques such as massage, myofascial release, and joint mobilisation can reduce muscle tension and improve blood flow to the affected area, aiding recovery.
3. Shockwave Therapy
For chronic tendon issues, shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that stimulates healing by increasing blood flow and breaking down scar tissue.
4. Taping and Bracing
Supportive taping or braces may be used temporarily to offload the tendon and reduce strain during the healing phase, particularly for athletes or those who remain active.
5. Education and Activity Modification
We work with patients to identify and modify aggravating activities. Ergonomic advice, postural education, and pacing strategies can help prevent recurrence and support a sustainable return to activity.
Preventing Tendon Pain
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are a few tips to reduce your risk of developing tendon pain:
- Warm up before activity and cool down afterwards
- Incorporate strength and flexibility training into your routine
- Gradually increase the intensity or duration of new exercises
- Use proper technique and equipment
- Avoid repetitive movements without adequate rest
Our physiotherapists can help you build a preventative programme tailored to your lifestyle and fitness level.
When to See a Physiotherapist
If you’re experiencing persistent tendon pain that’s limiting your activity or affecting your quality of life, it’s time to seek professional help. Early intervention can prevent a minor issue from becoming a long-term condition.
At Advantage Physiotherapy, we offer expert assessment, diagnosis, and treatment plans designed specifically for your needs. Our experienced team will guide you through each stage of recovery, ensuring that your treatment is safe, effective, and sustainable.
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Book Your Appointment Today
Don’t let tendon pain hold you back. At Advantage Physiotherapy, we’re here to support you with expert care and personalised treatment plans. Whether your pain is new or has been troubling you for some time, our team is ready to help you move freely and confidently again.
Get in touch today to book your consultation and take the first step towards lasting relief.