The Difference Between Tendinosis and Tendinitis

When it comes to musculoskeletal conditions and injuries, two terms that are often used interchangeably are tendinosis and tendinitis. While these conditions both affect tendons in the body, they have distinct differences that are crucial to understand for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Definition and Causes

Tendinosis refers to chronic degeneration of a tendon due to repetitive overuse or aging. It is a non-inflammatory condition characterized by microtears, collagen degeneration, and tissue breakdown. On the other hand, tendinitis is an acute condition involving inflammation of the tendon caused by sudden injury, repetitive strain, or a systemic condition such as arthritis.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The symptoms of tendinosis typically include pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the affected tendon. Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination, imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI, and possibly a biopsy to confirm the degenerative changes. Tendinitis, on the other hand, presents with localized pain, swelling, warmth, and redness around the affected tendon. A diagnosis is often made based on a physical exam and medical history.

Treatment and Management

For tendinosis, treatment focuses on rest, physical therapy, eccentric exercises, extracorporeal shock wave therapy, and in some cases, surgery to repair severe damage. Tendinitis is typically treated with rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE protocol), NSAIDs, corticosteroid injections, and physical therapy to strengthen the tendon and surrounding muscles.

Prevention and Prognosis

Preventing tendinosis involves avoiding repetitive motions that stress the tendons, maintaining proper ergonomics, warming up before physical activity, and using proper equipment. Tendinitis prevention includes gradual progression of exercise intensity, proper technique, adequate rest between activities, and cross-training to avoid overuse injuries.

Conclusion

Understanding the nuances between tendinosis and tendinitis is essential for healthcare providers in the fields of Health & Medical, Chiropractors, and Physical Therapy. By recognizing the differences in etiology, symptoms, and treatment modalities, professionals can effectively diagnose and manage these common tendon conditions, leading to improved patient outcomes and quality of care.