Tendon injuries are common among athletes and active individuals, but they can also affect anyone as they age or engage in repetitive activities. Understanding the most prevalent tendon injuries will help you recognize symptoms early and seek appropriate treatment. Here’s a detailed look at the top tendon injuries to be aware of.

Achilles Tendon Rupture

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, making it vital for walking, running, and jumping. An Achilles tendon rupture often occurs suddenly during physical activities, especially in sports that require quick movements, like basketball or tennis. Symptoms include a sudden, sharp pain followed by swelling, difficulty walking, and the inability to stand on tiptoe.

Tendinitis

Tendinitis refers to the inflammation of a tendon, commonly occurring in the shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee, and heel. Common types include:

• Patellar Tendinitis: Often known as "jumper's knee," this condition affects the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone, causing pain during jumping or running.
• Rotator Cuff Tendinitis: This affects the group of muscles and tendons stabilizing the shoulder, leading to pain and restricted movement.
• Achilles Tendinitis: Different from a rupture, this involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon, presenting with pain and stiffness in the back of the heel.

Tendinosis

Tendinosis is a chronic condition characterized by the degeneration of tendon fibers due to overuse. Unlike tendinitis, it does not involve inflammation. Symptoms typically include persistent pain, stiffness, and sometimes swelling. Common areas affected include the elbow (tennis elbow), knee, and shoulder. This injury is often seen in individuals who perform repetitive motions or overuse their tendons without adequate rest.

Rotator Cuff Tear

The rotator cuff consists of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. A tear can occur due to acute injury or gradual wear and tear. Symptoms may include a dull ache, difficulty lifting the arm, and limited range of motion. This injury is particularly common in older adults and those who engage in overhead activities.

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

This condition affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, causing pain and swelling. It is often caused by repetitive wrist motions, such as those involved in texting or playing video games. Symptoms include pain near the base of the thumb and a “catching” sensation when moving the thumb. This injury is commonly seen in new parents who lift their babies frequently.

Turf Toe

Turf toe is a sprain of the big toe joint, typically caused by hyperextension of the toe, often seen in athletes playing on artificial surfaces. Symptoms can range from mild pain and swelling to severe pain that prevents movement. Treatment usually involves rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medication.

Preventive Measures and Treatment

To prevent tendon injuries, it’s crucial to warm up before physical activity and engage in strength training and flexibility exercises. Maintaining proper techniques in sports is equally important to avoid excessive stress on tendons.

If you experience pain or swelling in any tendon, rest is often the first line of treatment, along with ice application, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E). In more severe cases, physical therapy or even surgery may be necessary to restore full function.

Being aware of these top tendon injuries and their symptoms can help you take proactive steps to prevent them and seek early intervention when necessary. Always consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.