[Tendinopathy in athletes]

Tendinopathy is a condition of tendon overuse and is a very common cause of morbidity among recreational and competitive athletes. Chronic overload results in degenerative changes of the tendon, which becomes painful and swollen with impaired function. A reduction in the overloading activity is the mainstay of the treatment. A rehabilitating programme consisting of controlled loading of the affected tendon should follow this. Other modalities, which may facilitate treatment, are: injections with corticosteroid, platelet-rich plasma, and of high volume, as well as shock-wave therapy and surgery.