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Common overuse tendon problems: A review and recommendations for treatment
1University of Wisconsin Medical School, Madison, Wisconsin 53593, USA. john.wilson@fammed.wisc.edu
American Family Physician
|September 15, 2005
Summary
Most symptomatic tendon injuries are degenerative (tendinosis), not inflammatory (tendinitis). Accurate diagnosis and conservative treatment, including rest and eccentric exercises, lead to recovery in most cases.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
Background:
- Symptomatic tendon injuries are frequently misdiagnosed as inflammatory 'tendonitis'.
- Most chronic tendon issues present as degenerative conditions, correctly termed 'tendinosis' or 'tendinopathy'.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the distinction between inflammatory and degenerative tendon conditions.
- To outline diagnostic approaches and effective treatments for common tendinopathies.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical features, anatomy, and physical examination maneuvers for tendon injuries.
- Discussion of imaging modalities (radiography, ultrasonography, MRI) for unclear diagnoses.
- Analysis of conservative and surgical treatment options.
Main Results:
- Overuse tendinopathies commonly affect the rotator cuff, elbow epicondyles, patellar tendon, and Achilles tendon.
- Approximately 80% of patients with overuse tendinopathies recover within 3-6 months with conservative care.
- Eccentric strengthening exercises, relative rest, and icing are key components of outpatient treatment.
Conclusions:
- Accurate diagnosis differentiating tendinosis from tendinitis is crucial for effective management.
- Conservative treatment is effective for most patients, with surgery reserved for refractory cases.
- While NSAIDs and corticosteroids may offer short-term relief, they are not primary recommendations; eccentric exercises are vital.