Tendinopathy and tendinitis are terms that are sometimes used interchangeably, but they refer to different conditions that require different treatments. In both, pain is a component and that’s where Physik .. can be helpful.
Tendinitis (Tendonitis) refers to the inflammation of a tendon. It's often caused by acute overuse or sudden injury to the tendon. Golfer’s elbow is a good example. Symptoms include localized pain, swelling, and warmth. The pain is often sharp and can be aggravated by movement or touch. Tendinitis is typically a short-term condition that, with proper treatment, can resolve without leading to long-term damage.
Treatment for tendonitis includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation (often referred to as RICE). Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can be used to reduce inflammation and pain and can well formulated products with CBD like Physik. Physical therapy and exercises might also be advised to restore strength and function.
Tendinopathy is a broad term that refers to any disease or pathology of the tendon. Tendinosis is a common tendinopathy that involves chronic degeneration of the tendon without significant inflammation. It results from chronic overuse and repetitive microtrauma that leads to degenerative changes in the tendon. Instead of inflammation, there's a breakdown of collagen fibers and a lack of proper healing. The symptoms of tendinopathy includes pain, stiffness, and sometimes swelling. The pain is often more of an ache rather than the sharp pain associated with tendinitis. This is a longer-term condition that can persist for months or even years if not properly managed.
The focus of treatment for tendinopathy is often on promoting collagen synthesis and tendon healing. This might include eccentric exercises, physical therapy, avoiding aggravating activities, and sometimes newer modalities like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections. NSAIDs are used less frequently for tendinopathy than tendinitis since inflammation is not the primary concern.
In summary, while both conditions involve the tendon and can cause pain, tendinitis is primarily an inflammatory response, whereas tendinopathy, specifically tendinosis, reflects chronic degeneration and damage to the tendon. Proper diagnosis is important as the management and prognosis can differ between the two conditions. If someone suspects they have one of these conditions, they should consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations.