Summary

• Tendinopathy is a general term that describes tendon degeneration characterised by a combination of pain, swelling, and impaired performance.
• Common sites include the rotator cuff (supraspinatus tendon), wrist extensors (lateral epicondyle) and pronators (medial epicondyle), patellar and quadriceps tendons, and Achilles' tendon.
• The exact aetiology is unclear. Studies suggest it is an over-use condition leading to inadequate tendon repair that predisposes the tendon to micro-tears and degeneration.
• Treatment consists of activity modification, relative rest, ice, stretching, and strengthening. Stretching and strengthening are best guided by a physiotherapist.
• Those who do not improve with conservative therapy should seek surgical evaluation.