Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Understanding Tendonitis
- Common Symptoms of Tendonitis
- What Causes Tendonitis?
- Risk Factors That Increase Susceptibility
- How Physiotherapy Supports Tendonitis Treatment
- Common Physiotherapy Techniques for Tendonitis
- How Long Does Recovery Take?
- When to See a Physiotherapist
- Choosing the Right Clinic for Support
- Preventative Tips After Recovery
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Introduction
Tendonitis treatment is a frequent concern for many people, particularly those with active lifestyles or repetitive strain from work. Whether you’re dealing with pain in your shoulder, elbow, knee, or heel, this condition can impact your daily life significantly. Physiotherapy has become a well-recognised approach in managing and improving tendon health, with clinics like Go Run Go Physio helping individuals regain mobility and comfort through tailored rehabilitation programmes.
Understanding Tendonitis
‘Tendonitis’ refers to inflammation or irritation of a tendon, the thick fibrous cord that connects muscle to bone. It often occurs from overuse or repetitive movements. Although it can affect any tendon, it’s commonly found in:
- Shoulders (rotator cuff)
- Elbows (tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow)
- Knees (jumper’s knee)
- Heels (Achilles tendon)
- Wrists
Left unmanaged, tendonitis may progress to more chronic tendon conditions or tendon rupture.
Common Symptoms of Tendonitis
Recognising the symptoms of tendonitis early improves outcomes. Signs may vary depending on the tendon affected but usually include:
- Pain or tenderness near a joint
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after activity
- Swelling or thickening around the tendon
- Limited range of motion
- A grating or crackling sensation during movement
Symptoms may develop gradually or appear suddenly after intense activity.
What Causes Tendonitis?
Tendonitis typically arises due to repetitive strain or a sudden increase in activity. Other contributing factors include a sudden
- Repeated movements over time (e.g., typing, lifting)
- Incorrect technique during sports or exercise
- Poor posture or biomechanics
- Direct trauma or injury
- Wearing unsupportive footwear
- Muscle imbalances placing stress on the tendon
What causes tendonitis? is often a mix of external stress and internal tissue vulnerability.
Risk Factors That Increase Susceptibility
Some individuals are more likely to develop tendonitis due to the following:
- Ageing (tendons lose flexibility with age)
- Occupations requiring repetitive motion (e.g., carpenters, hairdressers)
- Sports involving overuse (e.g., running, swimming)
- Pre-existing conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis
- Lack of physical conditioning or warm-ups before activity
Understanding risk factors for tendonitis allows people to take preventative steps.
How Physiotherapy Supports Tendonitis Treatment
Tendonitis treatment through physiotherapy goes beyond managing pain—it focuses on long-term recovery, mobility restoration, and preventing recurrence. Physiotherapists assess the underlying causes, not just the symptoms, making the approach more sustainable.
Benefits of physiotherapy include:
- Reducing inflammation and tendon load
- Restoring correct movement patterns
- Promoting tendon healing through controlled exercises
- Strengthening surrounding muscles to offload pressure
- Educating patients on safe return to activity
Clinics like Go Run Go Physio offer individualised tendonitis treatment in Melbourne, ensuring patients receive care suited to their specific condition and goals.
Common Physiotherapy Techniques for Tendonitis
Physiotherapists use a combination of methods depending on the severity and location of the tendonitis. Common treatments include:
1. Manual Therapy
- Soft tissue massage to reduce tension
- Joint mobilisation for improved movement
2. Therapeutic Exercise
- Eccentric strengthening exercises
- Stretching programs targeting tight muscle groups
3. Load Management Education
- Advice on reducing strain without full rest
- Guidance on pacing and movement modification
4. Dry Needling or Ultrasound Therapy
- Helps stimulate blood flow and relieve pain
5. Bracing or Taping
- Used for support during daily or sports activities
The best outcomes often come from early intervention and consistent treatment sessions.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Recovery time varies based on:
- Tendon involved
- Severity of inflammation
- Duration before starting treatment
- Adherence to physiotherapy advice
In general:
- Mild cases: 2–3 weeks
- Moderate: 4–6 weeks
- Chronic: 8+ weeks
Long-standing tendon issues may take longer but often respond well to consistent treatment.
When to See a Physiotherapist
If you’re noticing persistent joint pain or suspect symptoms of tendonitis, early assessment is crucial. Visit a physiotherapist if you experience:
- Pain lasting more than a few days
- Difficulty with daily tasks due to joint discomfort
- Pain that worsens during or after activity
- Swelling or warmth near a joint
- Reduced strength or movement in a limb
Go Run Go Physio offers same-day appointments for tendon-related issues and can guide your recovery effectively.
Choosing the Right Clinic for Support
Look for the following when choosing a physiotherapy clinic:
- Experienced clinicians with musculoskeletal focus
- Availability of modern treatment tools
- Personalised treatment plans
- Local experience, especially with tendonitis treatment in Melbourne
- Positive client outcomes and continuity of care
Clinics like Go Run Go Physio have extensive experience helping runners, office workers, and recreational athletes return to activity confidently.
Preventative Tips After Recovery
Once tendonitis symptoms have settled, it’s important to avoid recurrence. Prevention tips include:
- Warm up properly before physical activity
- Include strengthening and flexibility exercises in routines
- Avoid sudden changes in training intensity
- Use ergonomic tools and correct posture
- Wear appropriate footwear, especially for sport or work
- Schedule maintenance sessions with a physiotherapist if needed
These strategies help maintain tendon health over the long term.
FAQs
Q1. Can tendonitis heal without physiotherapy?
Answer: Mild cases may improve with rest and self-care, but without addressing the cause, it often returns. Physiotherapy offers faster recovery and lowers the chance of recurrence.
Q2. Is tendonitis the same as tendinosis?
Answer: No. Tendonitis refers to inflammation, often acute. Tendinosis involves tendon degeneration without inflammation and usually results from chronic overuse.
Q3. Should I stop all activity if I have tendonitis?
Answer: Not always. Relative rest is recommended meaning you may continue certain movements but avoid aggravating ones. Your physiotherapist will guide appropriate activity levels.
Q4. What is eccentric loading, and why is it important?
Answer: Eccentric loading involves lengthening the muscle under tension. It’s a proven method in tendon recovery, as it stimulates healing and improves strength.
Q5. How do I know if I need imaging (like ultrasound)?
Answer: Most cases are diagnosed clinically. Imaging is used if symptoms persist despite therapy or if a tear is suspected. Your physiotherapist or GP can advise.
Q6. Is tendonitis common in runners?
Answer: Yes, particularly in the Achilles and patellar tendons. Improper footwear, poor running technique, or overtraining often contribute.
Q7. Can physiotherapy help older adults with tendon pain?
Answer: Absolutely. Age-related tendon stiffness can be improved with a targeted physiotherapy programme designed to maintain function and reduce pain.
Conclusion
Tendonitis treatment is most successful when it begins early and targets the source of the issue, not just the symptoms. Physiotherapy remains the most practical, evidence-based option for both short-term relief and long-term prevention. With the right treatment plan, most individuals can return to full activity without complications.
Go Run Go Physio is committed to helping clients recover from tendon-related injuries through personalised, expert care. Whether you’re dealing with heel pain, shoulder stiffness or knee discomfort, seeking the right help early can make a measurable difference