TendonitisLoad, Pain and Capacity

Understand tendon pain, what drives it and how progressive loading restores tolerance and function.

What is tendonitis?

Tendonitis (or tendinopathy) is load‑related tendon pain that often flares with sudden training spikes or repetitive tasks. Common sites include the Achilles, patellar tendon, rotator cuff and elbow.

Physiotherapy balances symptom relief with progressive loading (isometrics → heavy‑slow resistance), technique cues and whole‑chain strength.

Common contributing factors

Load spikes

Rapid increases in volume or intensity.

Technique

Movement strategies stressing the tendon.

De‑conditioning

Lower capacity after time off.

Equipment

Footwear/racket changes altering load.

Symptoms

  • Local pain and stiffness at the tendon site
  • Worse with load and first steps or after sitting
  • Tenderness and reduced confidence with tasks

Related symptoms: Muscle stiffness, Reduced range of motion, Muscle weakness

How can physiotherapy help?

Care blends education, load management and progressive strengthening to restore tendon tolerance and function.

Core components

  • Education and flare strategies
  • Isometrics → heavy‑slow resistance
  • Technique cues and whole‑chain strength
  • Criteria‑based return to activity/sport

Effective treatments

Exercise therapy

HSR and progressive plyometrics.

Manual therapy

Adjunct for symptom relief.

Education

Load plan and pacing.

Lifestyle

Footwear, surfaces, training schedule.

What happens in a physiotherapy session?

  • Subjective: training load, goals, flares
  • Testing: pain‑provocation, strength, single‑leg tasks
  • Education: load plan, flare strategy, technique cues
  • Plan: HSR → plyometrics → return‑to‑activity

Can you manage tendonitis at home?

Yes—most improve with load management and a progressive strengthening plan.

Weekly progression example

  • Week 1–2: isometrics, reduce spikes
  • Week 3–4: HSR (2–3×/week), technique cues
  • Week 5+: add plyometrics and sport‑specific drills

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.