When our tendons (those tough, rope-like connectors that link our muscles to our bones) become overworked, underappreciated, or simply exhausted, they develop tendinopathy. A condition that causes pain and stiffness that affects our daily activities. Today, we want to break down a list of the most common signs that you could possess if you have tendinopathy..
For specialised care, turn to the experts at Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine in New Jersey, serving Middletown, Ridgewood, Westfield, West Orange and Morristown and surrounding areas such as Belford, Holmdel, Fair Lawn, Midland Park, Clark, Mountainside, Livingston, Millburn, Madison, and Florham Park. Our team focuses on nonsurgical and minimally invasive treatments, helping you find relief from your pain and get back to your daily activities without unnecessary interventions.
For appointments, call us or book online at any of our convenient locations in Middletown, Morristown, Ridgewood, Westfield, and West Orange.
The Types of Tendinopathy
Tendinitis and tendinosis are two different types of tendinopathy. While they often begin similarly, they affect your tendons by different processes. They also have different treatment protocols. Â
Tendinitis involves inflammation of a tendon, typically resulting from an acute injury. If it doesn’t heal properly, it can turn into a long-lasting condition. Over time, this persistent inflammation might also lead to tissue damage. Meanwhile, Tendinosis is a breakdown of the collagen in your tendon, which makes it lose its strength and elasticity. It happens separately from inflammation. The process is progressive and lasting.
In both cases, tendinopathy ultimately causes discomfort and pain to the patient; we encourage you to schedule a consultation with your doctor.
The Pain Patterns Matter!
Tendinopathy is often characterised by activity-related pain that usually follows a familiar pattern. You’ll probably notice that the pain feels strongest when you first start moving, when doing physical activities(start-up pain), but it may lessen as you warm up. Still, if you keep going or push yourself too hard, the pain might return or become worse. This is distinct from inflammatory conditions, where the pain typically persists throughout the activity.Â
For all the gym bros reading this, this is a little reminder that more pain doesn’t always mean more hypertrophy, but it can mean more damage to your long-term health.
Morning Stiffness
Many people experience a bit of stiffness and soreness in the morning when they start moving around. This familiar feeling (which does not mean that you don’t have flexibility per se) is referred to as “first-step pain” and is especially familiar to those with conditions like Achilles tendinopathy and plantar heel pain. It’s usually described as a sharp or burning sensation that tends to get better with physical activity, making it a manageable part of the day.
Load-Related Symptoms
Tendinopathy pain is closely linked to mechanical loading of the affected tendon. Activities that place tensile stress on the tendon (such as jumping, climbing stairs, or lifting) typically exacerbate symptoms. Conversely, rest often provides temporary relief, though prolonged inactivity can lead to further stiffening.
Localized Tenderness
A physical examination typically reveals point tenderness along the tendon, often at the insertion site where the tendon attaches to the bone. This tenderness is usually well-localised and reproducible, helping distinguish tendinopathy from other conditions with more diffuse pain patterns.
Functional Limitations
As the condition progresses, patients often report decreased strength and endurance in the affected area. Simple daily activities may become challenging, and athletic performance typically declines. These functional changes can significantly impact work productivity and recreational activities.
Diagnosing Tendinopathy in New Jersey
If you’re experiencing tendon pain during activities that has been going on for several months, you likely have tendinopathy. It’s critical to identify which type you have so you can get the proper care.
Here at Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine, we can help diagnose your tendinopathy through a physical exam and some imaging studies. We will review your symptoms, your activities, and any recent changes in your routine. We will also take a close look at your tendon and imaging to check for any signs of changes in the tissue.
Call or book an appointment online at Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine to schedule a visit for Tendinopathy treatment in New Jersey today.
