top of page
physiotherapy treatment table inside studio on clinic phnom penh representing hands-on care

Home    Studio    Services    Conditions    Online   Blog    Booking    Contact 

EN

FR

Search

Is tendonitis an inflammation? Well, not exactly.

  • Writer: Yannick Sarton
    Yannick Sarton
  • Oct 25, 2024
  • 3 min read

Updated: Nov 28

teenager with elbow pain inflammation treated bu Studio On. Phnom Penh
elbow pain Studio On.

Introduction


The common belief is that a “tendonitis” simply means inflammation of a tendon. But clinical reality shows something different. At Studio On (Phnom Penh & online), we frequently see a process of mechanical overload and degeneration rather than classic inflammation.


Why “inflammation” is often the wrong label


Tendonitis suggests acute inflammatory response; yet many studies indicate tendinopathy involves structural tendon changes—collagen disorganization, new blood vessels, mechanical stress—not just inflammatory swelling. Treating it as mere inflammation often results in inappropriate rest and delayed recovery.


Why “inflammation” is often the wrong label


Tendonitis suggests acute inflammatory response; yet many studies indicate tendinopathy involves structural tendon changes—collagen disorganization, new blood vessels, mechanical stress—not just inflammatory swelling. Treating it as mere inflammation often results in inappropriate rest and delayed recovery.


Implications for physiotherapy rehabilitation


Tendonitis suggests acute inflammatory response; yet many studies indicate tendinopathy involves structural tendon changes—collagen disorganization, new blood vessels, mechanical stress—not just inflammatory swelling. Treating it as mere inflammation often results in inappropriate rest and delayed recovery.








• Progressive Loading Is Key: Instead of stretching, the most effective treatment is progressive loading. This involves gradually increasing the load or resistance placed on the tendon over time, helping it adapt and strengthen. This approach helps rebuild the tendon’s capacity to handle stress without causing further damage.


3. Repetitive Motions and Tendinitis


Tendinitis is primarily a condition of overuse. Repetitive movements—whether from sports, work, or everyday activities—lead to microtrauma in the tendon. Over time, if the body doesn’t have adequate time to recover, this microtrauma accumulates and causes pain.


• The Key Is Rest and Proper Rehabilitation: During the acute phase of tendinitis, rest is crucial. It allows the tendon to recover from the initial strain. However, rest alone is not enough. Following the acute phase, targeted exercises focusing on strengthening the tendon are necessary to prevent further injury.


4. Managing Acute Tendinitis in Modern Physiotherapy


In the acute phase, it’s important to reduce load and modify activities that aggravate the tendon. Ice and pain relief medications can help manage symptoms, but they don’t address the underlying problem. Modern physiotherapy focuses on adjusting movement patterns and introducing progressive loading as soon as the pain allows.


5. Preventing Chronic Pain


One of the greatest risks of untreated or improperly managed tendinitis is that it can evolve into chronic pain. Chronic tendinopathy is not only more difficult to treat but also disrupts daily life significantly. To avoid this, it’s essential to begin a proper rehabilitation program early, focusing on reducing pain, restoring movement, and gradually reintroducing activities without causing further strain.



Whether you are in Phnom Penh or abroad, you can book your next in-clinic or online physiotherapy session today.I’m available worldwide for online consultations — simple, fast, and evidence-based.


Explore Studio On — Physiotherapy & Online Care


Physiotherapy & Osteopathy in Phnom Penh (BKK1), offering evidence-based treatments for pain, injuries, mobility issues, and rehabilitation


Discover the clinic in Phnom Penh: central location, private room, calm environment, professional equipment.


Overview of the physiotherapy and osteopathy services provided in-clinic: assessment, manual treatment, exercise therapy, rehabilitation.


Detailed information about all conditions treated: back pain, neck pain, joint pain, tendinopathy, muscle injuries, sports injuries, nerve irritation, acute & chronic pain.


Physiotherapy available worldwide: video consultation, diagnosis, personalised rehab plans, follow-up, and exercise programming.


Evidence-based articles helping you understand your condition and take control of your recovery.


Book your physiotherapy session in Phnom Penh or your online consultation in one click.


All the essential details: address, directions, phone number, and opening hours.






References:


Malliaras P. Physiotherapy management of Achilles tendinopathy. J Physiother. 2022 Oct;68(4):221-237. doi: 10.1016/j.jphys.2022.09.010. Epub 2022 Oct 21. PMID: 36274038.


Millar NL, Silbernagel KG, Thorborg K, Kirwan PD, Galatz LM, Abrams GD, Murrell GAC, McInnes IB, Rodeo SA. Tendinopathy. Nat Rev Dis Primers. 2021 Jan 7;7(1):1. doi: 10.1038/s41572-020-00234-1. Erratum in: Nat Rev Dis Primers. 2021 Feb 3;7(1):10. doi: 10.1038/s41572-021-00251-8. PMID: 33414454.


Breda SJ, Oei EHG, Zwerver J, Visser E, Waarsing E, Krestin GP, de Vos RJ. Effectiveness of progressive tendon-loading exercise therapy in patients with patellar tendinopathy: a randomised clinical trial. Br J Sports Med. 2021 May;55(9):501-509. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2020-103403. Epub 2020 Nov 20. PMID: 33219115; PMCID: PMC8070614.



Hashtags:




 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page