Tendinosis corresponds to the tendon degeneration process, which often happens as a result of a tendonitis that was not treated correctly. Despite this, tendinosis is not always related to an inflammatory process, and it is up to the doctor to identify tendinosis from diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound and MRI, for example.
In tendonitis, there is inflammation around the tendon, while in tendinosis the tendon itself is already weakened, presenting areas of fluid accumulation and small areas of rupture that can lead to complete rupture of the tendon even with small efforts. See what the tendonitis symptoms are.
Tendinosis is more common to affect the supraspinatus tendons, close to the shoulders; patellas, on the knees; Achilles tendon, on the heel, and the rotator cuff, also on the shoulder. Shoulder tendinosis usually occurs in athletes and in people who have to keep their arms raised for a long time, as is the case with artists and teachers, for example.
Tendinosis is treated with the aim of regenerating the joint by stimulating collagen production, in addition to rest.
Main symptoms
Symptoms of tendinosis are the same as those of tendonitis, and include:
- Local pain; Muscle weakness; Difficulty performing movements with the affected joint; Slight local swelling; Joint instability.
The diagnosis of tendinosis is made through magnetic resonance imaging, in which the tendon degradation process can be observed.
Tendinosis is usually associated with the chronicity of tendonitis, which is mainly caused by repetitive movements. However, it can be the result of great muscular effort, leading to overload of the joint and directly affecting the tendon. Vascular involvement of the tendon itself and overuse of the joint are also common causes of tendinosis.
How the treatment is done
The treatment of tendinosis is done with the aim of stimulating collagen production and increasing muscle strength, allowing tendon regeneration and reducing pain. In addition, the use of analgesics may be indicated, to relieve pain, and several physiotherapy sessions to reduce inflammation. Anti-inflammatory drugs are not always indicated, as in some cases there is no associated inflammation, and their use is unnecessary. However, corticoid infiltrations can be used.
To assist in the recovery of the tendon, it is important to rest the joint, avoid immobilizing the joint, perform stretching and kinesiotherapy exercises. In addition, a technique that has good results when used to treat tendinosis is shock wave therapy, in which a device emits sound waves through the body in order to stimulate the repair of various injuries and relieve inflammation. Understand how shockwave therapy is done.
The recovery time varies between 3 and 6 months, depending on the degree of tendon degeneration and if the treatment is being carried out in the manner indicated by the doctor.
Also learn how to prevent tendonitis before progressing to tendinosis in the following video:
