Overview
Tendinopathy is a painful condition of a tendon, the strong cord that attaches muscle to bone, usually caused by overuse and gradual wear rather than a single injury. Common sites include the Achilles, elbow (tennis or golfer's elbow), shoulder, knee and wrist. It tends to develop gradually and improves with appropriate loading and rest from aggravating activity.
Symptoms
- Pain near a tendon that builds gradually and worsens with activity
- Stiffness or pain that is worst at the start of activity or in the morning
- Tenderness when pressing on the tendon
- Mild swelling or thickening of the tendon
- Reduced strength or difficulty using the affected limb
Causes & risk factors
- Repetitive overload from sport, work or sudden increases in training
- Poor technique or unaccustomed activity
- Age-related changes in tendon tissue
- Tight or weak surrounding muscles
- Some health conditions and certain medications that affect tendons
Treatment & self-care
Care usually involves relative rest from the aggravating activity, then a gradual, guided loading and strengthening programme to rebuild tendon capacity, alongside pain management. A physiotherapist or clinician confirms the diagnosis and designs a progressive rehabilitation plan; rushing back too soon often prolongs recovery.
See a doctor urgently if
- You felt a sudden snap or pop and cannot use the limb properly — seek urgent care for a possible tendon rupture
- Pain is severe, constant or not improving over several weeks
- There is significant swelling, weakness or loss of function
- Symptoms recur whenever you return to activity