Tendonitis means inflammation; tendinosis (tendinopathy) means structural change in the tendon from overload. Most long-lasting tendon pain is tendinopathy. That is why rest and anti-inflammatories often disappoint, while progressive loading helps.
| Tendonitis | Tendinopathy / tendinosis | |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | New, acute | Weeks to years |
| Main problem | Inflammation | Disorganised collagen, overload |
| Best treatment | Short rest, ice | Progressive loading |
Why it matters for treatment
If tendon pain is treated as inflammation alone, people rest and take anti-inflammatories, then flare again when they return to activity. Treating it as a load and structure problem leads to progressive strengthening and, for stubborn cases, regenerative treatment that supports tendon rebuilding.
Tendon pain for more than 3 months? Get the free guide and a doctor review of your scan.
Signs of tendinopathy
- Pain lasting more than 6 weeks
- Morning stiffness that eases with movement
- Thickened tendon on ultrasound
Treatment
Progressive loading for 12 weeks, plus stem cell or PRP treatment if pain persists.
