Diagnosis and Management of Common Tendinopathies

Tendinopathy is a common cause of musculoskeletal morbidity, resulting in frequent visits to primary care providers, orthopedists, and urgent care clinics. Six common regions of tendinopathy are discussed in this article, including up to date findings in their clinical history and exam findings, special testing, imaging, and treatment.

Point of care musculoskeletal ultrasound has gained popularity as a tool in the diagnosis of various tendinopathies. Advanced interventions, including extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) and injections modalities such as platelet rich plasma (PRP) are becoming more common in the treatment of tendinopathy; however, the evidence for these interventions is mixed with most providing some short-term relief in symptoms but no long-term improvement in outcomes.

Point of care musculoskeletal ultrasound has gained popularity as a tool in the diagnosis of various tendinopathies. Advanced interventions, including extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) and injections modalities such as platelet rich plasma (PRP) are becoming more common in the treatment of tendinopathy; however, the evidence for these interventions is mixed with most providing some short-term relief in symptoms but no long-term improvement in outcomes. The diagnosis of tendinopathy often remains a clinical diagnosis with the mainstay of treatment remaining activity modification, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatories for acute pain control. Recovery time is widely variable between patients and conditions.