Tendon Injuries Specialist

What are tendons, and why are they important?

Tendons are the connective tissues that attach your muscles to your bones. They play an integral role in your musculoskeletal system and enable each and every movement you make throughout the day. 

Your tendons are made of fibrous bands of connective tissue. These collagen fibers are incredibly strong, and in some areas of the body, they are protected by tendon sheaths, which are layers of tissue filled with lubricating fluid. 

You have tendons throughout your body. While very tough and durable, tendons have little ability to stretch, making them subject to injury if overtaxed. 

What are some common tendon injuries?

Like all components of your musculoskeletal system, tendons can sustain damage. Some of the more common causes of tendon injuries include:

• Overuse, often during athletic or fitness activities
• Traumatic injury from a blow or fall
• Weakness in the supporting muscles brought on by a sedentary lifestyle 
• Twisting or forcing a tendon into an abnormal position

Tendinitis develops when a tendon is inflamed and/or irritated. This can lead to pain, swelling, and a sensation of warmth in the area of injury.

Tendon ruptures describe a tendon that is partially or completely torn. This is usually a sudden and unexpected injury, often brought on by an accident or sports injury. 

Subluxation happens when a tendon is moved out of place. This injury often creates a snapping or popping sound, and you might feel pain or a sensation of weakness in the affected joint. 

While not a tendon, your plantar fascia is a band of connective tissue running across the bottom of your foot from toe to heel. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of this connective tissue and can cause serious foot pain. 

What can be done to treat tendon injuries?

Minor tendon injuries in the foot or ankle might respond well to self-care. The RICE method is a great place to begin and involves resting the affected area, using ice to reduce swelling, compressing the area with a bandage for support, and elevating the joint. 

Physical therapy can be a great way to improve tendon injuries while also strengthening the surrounding muscles. During treatment, you also learn ways to prevent future injury and receive personalized advice on joint health and how to stay safe while embracing an active lifestyle. 

In some cases, surgical intervention is the only way to fully treat tendon injuries. Many procedures can be done laparoscopically. This approach uses small incisions and reduces the risk of bleeding, complications, and lengthy recovery times. 

If you have concerns over foot or ankle pain, call the offices of The Foot and Ankle Sports Institute, or request an appointment online today.