From Tendon Twinge to Full on Ruptures: A Podiatrist’s Guide

Your tendons, the strong, fibrous cords that connect muscle to bone, are essential for movement. But they’re also vulnerable to injury, especially if you’re active in sports like running or skiing.

Ignoring tendon pain can lead to a worsening condition and serious complications, so for this post, Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Institute will guide you through the stages of tendon injuries, from bad to worse. We’ll also cover a few minimally invasive and conservative treatments that can help you avoid surgery and get back on your feet faster!

The Tendon Trouble Timeline: Listen to Your Body!

Tendon injuries often progress through distinct stages. Below, we’ll dive into how things can escalate if you don’t address the issue, taking you from the early stages to the worst case scenario.

Stage 1: Tendonitis – The Warning Sign

• What it is: Inflammation of the tendon.
• Symptoms: Mild pain, especially after activity. Stiffness or tenderness around the affected area. Swelling may be present.
• Common in: Runners, skiers (Achilles tendonitis, Peroneal tendonitis).
• Treatment: R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation), gentle exercises to improve flexibility and support, and shockwave therapy can all be effective. You should also reduce the intensity or frequency of activities that aggravate the pain.

Stage 2: Tendinosis – Chronic Degeneration

• What it is: Degeneration of the tendon’s collagen fibers due to repetitive stress and failed healing.
• Symptoms: Persistent pain, even at rest. A noticeable thickening or lump on the tendon. Reduced range of motion.
• Common in: Athletes who ignore early signs of tendonitis.
• Treatment: Physical therapy exercises or stretching to promote tendon healing and strengthening. ESWT (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy) is quite effective. Regenerative medicine techniques have also shown promise.

Stage 3: Partial Tear – A Serious Progression

• What it is: Some of the tendon fibers are torn.
• Symptoms: Sharp pain, often during a specific movement. Weakness and instability. Difficulty performing activities that load the tendon. Significant swelling and bruising.
• Common in: Sudden forceful movements or a continuation of tendinosis.
• Treatment: Immobilization (e.g. brace or boot). Physical therapy.

Stage 4: Complete Rupture – The Worst-Case Scenario

• What it is: The tendon is completely torn.
• Symptoms: A “pop” or tearing sensation at the time of injury. Severe pain and inability to bear weight or use the affected limb. Significant swelling and bruising. A noticeable gap or deformity in the tendon.
• Common in: Sudden forceful movements, often in sports; untreated partial tears.
• Treatment: Often requires surgery to repair the torn tendon. This is typically followed by lengthy rehabilitation.

Questions or concerns about tendon troubles? We’re always available to help,whether you need a full checkup or just a new pair of shoes that actually fit.

Like Dr. Michaels says:

“If it’s below the knee, think of me!”

Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Institute, LLC offers comprehensive podiatric services. Call us at 301-797-8554 or contact us to schedule an appointment. Located in Hagerstown & Frederick, MD, we’re ready to meet any of your foot health needs.