4 Ways to Relieve Tendinopathy Pain

Also known as tendinosis, tendinopathy is the degradation or degeneration of collagen in a tendon. The most common cause of tendinopathy is wear from repetitive motions, but it can also be caused by sudden motion and even old age. If you're suffering from tendinopathy pain, no matter what the cause, here are four ways you can relieve this discomfort you're feeling.

1. Rest and use ice packs

As with most bodily inflammation, the first-line treatment for tendinopathy is rest and ice therapy. When you apply ice to your affected body parts, the pain will be soothed and blood vessels will constrict, which helps minimize inflammation. For the best results, take a rest every four to six hours and elevate your affected limb. During your rest periods, apply ice packs for 15 minutes at a time. Just remember not to apply ice directly to your skin by using fabric as a barrier.

2. Try pain relief medications

Over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen can help decrease your pain. These are ideal for treating mild tendinopathy injuries, especially when your pain is newly surfaced. However, unless under specific guidance from a doctor, it's best to take the pain medication only when you are experiencing major flare-ups. Taking these pills long-term can cause other health problems like stomach ulcers and possibly liver or kidney damage.

3. Adjust your activity

Even when you're suffering from tendinopathy pain, it can be hard to give up sports or vigorous activities you enjoy or throw away your workout routine entirely. However, it is important to exercise with caution when you're dealing with this condition. Sports and activities that don't use your affected limb are a good way to stay mobile during recovery, as are low-impact activities like swimming and walking.

4. Call a physiotherapist

Though you can manage tendinopathy pain with over-the-counter medications and resting, it may also be wise to consult a physiotherapist. A physiotherapist can look at your specific case and guide you in the right direction, whether that's physical therapy or something else. Most importantly, having someone who's trained in this kind of thing will help you maximize your recovery as quickly as possible.

The key to treating tendinopathy is preventing it in the first place. Keep your workouts safe and on point by using the proper form for each exercise and maintaining a balanced workout routine that includes both rest days and intense activities.

Contact a local physiotherapy clinic to learn more.