Soft Tissue Tendon Injuries
Traumatic Orthopaedic Injuries - Soft Tissue And Ligament Injuries: Soft Tissue Tendon Injuries
Soft tissue tendon injuries involve damage to the tendons, the strong connective tissues that attach muscles to bones. These injuries can range from mild inflammation (tendinitis) to partial or complete tendon tears, and they often affect areas like the shoulder, elbow, knee, ankle, and wrist. Tendon injuries can significantly impact mobility and function, depending on their severity and location. Prompt assessment and appropriate treatment may help reduce pain, restore function, and improve recovery outcomes.
What Are Soft Tissue Tendon Injuries?
Soft tissue tendon injuries occur when tendons are stretched, inflamed, or torn due to acute trauma or repetitive strain. Common tendon injuries include:
- Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendon due to overuse or repetitive movements.
- Tendinosis: Degeneration of the tendon caused by chronic overuse.
- Tendon Tears: Partial or complete ruptures of the tendon, which may result from trauma or excessive force.
- Tenosynovitis: Inflammation of the sheath surrounding a tendon, often associated with repetitive movements or overuse.
Causes Of Soft Tissue Tendon Injuries
Tendon injuries are commonly caused by a combination of acute trauma and chronic overuse. Typical causes include:
- Repetitive Movements: Activities involving repetitive motions, such as typing, lifting, or sports activities.
- Sudden Trauma: A fall, collision, or forceful movement causing acute stress to the tendon.
- Overuse: Prolonged stress or strain on a tendon without adequate rest.
- Poor Technique: Incorrect posture or mechanics during physical activities.
Symptoms Of Soft Tissue Tendon Injuries
Symptoms of tendon injuries may vary depending on the location and severity of the injury but commonly include:
- Pain and tenderness over the affected tendon, often worsening with movement.
- Swelling and stiffness around the injury site.
- Weakness or difficulty moving the affected joint or limb.
- A grating or snapping sensation during tendon movement.
- Visible deformity or a gap in cases of complete tendon rupture.
If these symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to seek medical attention for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Risk Factors For Soft Tissue Tendon Injuries
Certain factors may increase the likelihood of sustaining a tendon injury, including:
- Age: Tendons lose elasticity and strength with age, increasing the risk of injury.
- Repetitive Activities: Sports or occupations involving repetitive motions or prolonged strain.
- Poor Conditioning: Weak muscles can place additional strain on tendons.
- Previous Injuries: A history of tendon injuries can increase susceptibility.
- Inadequate Warm-Up: Failing to prepare muscles and tendons before activity.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis that can affect tendon health.
Treatment Options For Soft Tissue Tendon Injuries
Treatment for tendon injuries focuses on reducing pain, promoting healing, and restoring strength and mobility. Options include:
Non-Surgical Treatments
- RICE Protocol: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation to manage pain and swelling.
- Pain Management: Anti-inflammatory medications or topical treatments to reduce discomfort.
- Physiotherapy: A tailored rehabilitation program to strengthen the affected tendon, improve flexibility, and prevent further injuries.
- Orthotics or Braces: Devices to support and offload stress from the injured tendon.
- Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, injections may be used to reduce inflammation around the tendon.
Surgical Treatments
Surgery may be recommended for severe tendon injuries, such as complete ruptures, or when non-surgical treatments are ineffective:
- Tendon Repair: Reattaching the torn ends of the tendon.
- Tendon Reconstruction: Using grafts to restore tendon function in cases of significant damage.
- Debridement: Removing damaged tissue to promote healing.
Dr Scott Tulloch will assess the extent of the injury and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan based on your condition, activity level, and long-term goals.
When Should You Seek Help For A Tendon Injury?
You should consider seeking medical advice if:
- Pain, swelling, or stiffness persists despite rest and home care.
- You experience weakness or reduced range of motion in the affected area.
- You notice a visible deformity or gap in the tendon.
- Symptoms worsen or interfere with daily activities.
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of chronic pain, weakness, or re-injury.
If you would like to learn more about soft tissue tendon injuries or discuss your treatment options, book an appointment with Dr Scott Tulloch at the Victorian Orthopaedic Group.
