A general term that describes tendon degeneration characterised by a combination of pain, swelling and impaired performance

There are over 600 muscle-tendon units in the human body. Theoretically, tendinopathy can occur in any one of them.

Common sites include the rotator cuff (supraspinatus tendon), wrist extensors (lateral epicondyle) and pronators (medial epicondyle), patellar and quadriceps tendons, and Achilles' tendon.

• In athletes, common locations for tendinopathy include the Achilles' and patellar tendons.
• In the general population, the Achilles' and lateral epicondyle are the most commonly affected.

Aetiology:

• Exact aetiology unclear
• Over use condition leading to inadequate tendon repair that predisposes the tendon to micro-tears and degeneration

Risk factors:

• Athletic training
• Unsuitable equipment
• Hard and high fraction playing surface

PC

*Presence of R/F

• Insideous onset of pain
• Pain worse on activity

On examination:

• Well localised tenderness to tendon
• Test for medial epicondylitis - painful forearm pronation/palmer flexion