What is Tendonosis?

Tendonosis is a common cause of tenderness, chronic pain, and weakness in body tendons. The condition is characterized by damage to the inner layers of a tendon on the cellular level. Unlike tendinitis, which affects a large section of tissue and induces inflammation, tendonosis is not a true inflammatory disorder. Symptoms result from the body's inability to heal microscopic damage and replace dead cells. There are no proven medical treatments for tendonosis, and most people need a combination of physical therapy and surgery to fully overcome the problem.

It is not always clear what triggers tendonosis, but doctors believe that cell degradation typically results from an inadequate supply of blood and nutrients to the cells. Athletes and people who engage in intense physical activity are at risk of putting too much strain on their muscles and tendons, which can make them tight and less able to absorb blood. Aging is another prominent risk factor, as bones, tendons, and muscles tend to weaken over time. In addition, an acute or chronic injury can result in inflammation and scarring that prevents a tendon from receiving enough blood.

The most common sites for the condition are the rotator cuffs in the shoulders and the Achilles tendons in the ankles. Baseball pitchers, quarterbacks, and other athletes who use their arms repetitively are at the highest risk of rotator cuff tendonosis. Achilles tendon injuries are common in runners and athletes who are required to frequently jump, stop, and turn. The disorder can also arise in finger and wrist tendons in people who type, write, or draw for several hours a day. Other possible sites include the knees, elbows, feet, or the lower back.

Symptoms may not be noticeable until extensive damage has occurred. The most common symptoms are tenderness, aches, and tightness in the affected body part. An injury can also cause weakness and occasional burning or tingling sensations. If the condition goes untreated, degrading tissue may suddenly tear apart and cause immediate, debilitating pain.

A doctor can check for tendon problems by performing a physical evaluation and taking diagnostic imaging scans. Ultrasounds, x-rays, and magnetic resonance imaging scans can usually reveal cell-level damage to a tendon. Relatively minor or early-stage tendonosis can sometimes be relieved with rest, ice, and taking painkillers for about two to four weeks. If problems become serious, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace a tendon. With follow-up physical therapy and limited activity for several months, injuries generally heal well.