Facts

• Tendonosis results when collagen, a fiber present in tendons, begins to degenerate as a result of a past physical injury such as a sprain. As collagen degenerates, the fibers that are typically straight and flexible become tangled and jelly-like. Unable to function properly, the tendon becomes sore and will continue to degenerate if not treated properly.
  
  

Identification

• Because tendonosis exhibits qualities similar to tendonitis--soreness and stiffness of the joints--it is not difficult to detect. Consult your doctor or seek physical therapy if you have had an injury, such as a strained or pulled tendon, in the last year. Tendonosis will not necessarily be easy to detect visually, as it does not inflame the area around the affected tendon. Therefore, do not wait for outwardly visible signs of tendonosis before seeking medical attention.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• Prevention is preferable to injury, so everything that can be done to prevent tendonosis should be taken into account. If you are physically active, be sure to stretch before working out or exercising. This helps keep the tendons flexible and can prevent them from snapping or degenerating. Wear proper athletic attire at all times, especially shoes, because tendonosis typically occurs in the Achilles tendon. If you have the sensation of dull or acute pain in your joints or tendons, stop and take a few minutes to evaluate the area. If pain persists, stop exercising. If pain persists for several hours or days, seek medical attention.
  
  

Treatment

• Unlike tendonitis, tendonosis is not an inflammatory disease and thus cannot be treated in the same manner. Anti-inflammatory medicine should therefore not be taken. If you can properly identify yourself as afflicted with tendonosis, attempt to use the affected tendon as much as possible without injuring it further. Despite the pain, try to move the tendon on a regular basis while avoiding rigorous or strenuous activity. Massage the affected are with ice to help numb the pain. Friction massage, although painful, can also be used to help stimulate the tendon back to a more usable status. Most importantly, seek physical therapy as soon as possible. A therapist can better identify the extent of damage to your tendon and can offer advice on further steps to recovery.
  
  

Warning

• Be patient when recovering from tendonosis. Treatment can continue for upward of eight or nine months in order for the tendon to return to a completely usable state. Continue to use the tendon as necessary but do not overstress it. Attempting to perform strenuous activity or ignoring the pain caused by tendonosis can increase its discomfort and prolong the healing process.