Tendinopathy Overview Flashcards
What is overuse tendinopathy?
A chronic condition caused by repetitive strain on a tendon, leading to pain and dysfunction.
What are common tendons affected by overuse tendinopathy?
Achilles tendon, patellar tendon, rotator cuff tendons, forearm tendons.
What is another term for Achilles tendinopathy?
Achillodynia.
What is the typical age range for Achilles tendinopathy?
30–60 years old.
What are risk factors for developing tendinopathy?
Overuse, sudden increase in activity, poor biomechanics, older age, fluoroquinolone use.
What medications are associated with increased risk of tendinopathy?
Fluoroquinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin).
What is the main clinical symptom of tendinopathy?
Pain during or after activity, often worse in the morning or after rest.
What are key clinical findings of tendinopathy on examination?
Localized tenderness, thickening of the tendon, pain with resisted movement.
What is the role of ultrasound in diagnosing tendinopathy?
Identifies tendon thickening, hypoechoic areas, and neovascularization.
What imaging modality is used for unclear cases of tendinopathy?
MRI without contrast.
What are common differential diagnoses for Achilles tendinopathy?
Retrocalcaneal bursitis, Haglund exostosis, calcaneal apophysitis.
What is the first-line treatment for tendinopathy?
Conservative management, including physical therapy and activity modification.
What role do corticosteroid injections play in tendinopathy management?
Generally avoided due to the risk of tendon rupture.
What is eccentric loading therapy?
A physical therapy technique involving controlled lengthening of the tendon to promote healing.
When is surgical treatment considered for tendinopathy?
In refractory cases that do not improve with conservative management.
What is lateral epicondylitis commonly known as?
Tennis elbow.
What is medial epicondylitis commonly known as?
Golfer’s elbow.
What is the most common cause of patellar tendinopathy?
Repetitive jumping (jumper’s knee).
What conservative treatments are used for rotator cuff tendinopathy?
Activity modification, physical therapy, NSAIDs, eccentric strengthening.
What is iliotibial band syndrome?
A form of tendinopathy due to repetitive friction of the IT band over the lateral femoral epicondyle.
What interventions are used for refractory tendinopathy cases?
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy, platelet-rich plasma injections, surgical debridement.
What is the most common cause of insertional tendinopathy?
Chronic overuse leading to repetitive strain at the tendon’s insertion site.
What is the Royal London test used for?
To diagnose Achilles tendinopathy by assessing tenderness with dorsiflexion.
What is the arc sign in Achilles tendinopathy?
A test where a thickened portion of the tendon moves relative to the malleoli with ankle motion.
What is the main goal of tendinopathy treatment?
Pain reduction, restoration of function, and prevention of recurrence.
What is the first step in managing overuse tendinopathy?
Relative rest and activity modification to reduce strain on the tendon.
What conservative treatments are recommended for tendinopathy?
Relative rest, ice, orthotic braces, physical therapy, NSAIDs.
What is the role of NSAIDs in tendinopathy management?
Short-term pain relief, usually for 7–14 days; does not alter tendon healing.
What type of exercise is most beneficial for tendinopathy rehabilitation?
Eccentric strengthening exercises to promote tendon remodeling.
What is the recommended duration of conservative therapy before considering advanced treatments?
At least 3 months of consistent therapy.
When should a patient with tendinopathy be referred to an orthopedic specialist?
If symptoms persist for ≥3 months despite conservative treatment.
What are noninvasive treatment options for refractory tendinopathy?
Corticosteroid injections, platelet-rich plasma injections, topical nitroglycerin, extracorporeal shock wave therapy.
What is the risk of repeated corticosteroid injections for tendinopathy?
Increased risk of tendon rupture.
What surgical options exist for tendinopathy that does not respond to conservative treatment?
Ultrasound-guided debridement, tendon resection, open debridement.
What is the role of orthotic braces in tendinopathy management?
They help reduce tendon strain and provide support during activity.
How does extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) help in tendinopathy?
Stimulates healing and reduces pain by promoting tissue regeneration.
What is the purpose of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections in tendinopathy?
May promote tendon healing by delivering growth factors to the affected tissue.
What role does topical nitroglycerin play in tendinopathy treatment?
Enhances local blood flow and may promote healing.
What lifestyle modifications can help prevent tendinopathy recurrence?
Proper warm-up, gradual training progression, strengthening exercises, avoiding repetitive strain.
What is the goal of physical therapy in tendinopathy treatment?
To strengthen the tendon and surrounding muscles while promoting tissue healing.
When should surgery be considered for tendinopathy?
In cases of chronic, severe pain unresponsive to 6+ months of conservative treatment.
