Tendon injury (tendinopathy)

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A tendon injury is a condition in which you have irritated or damaged the tough fibers that connect muscle to bone. Most tendon injuries occur near joints, like the shoulder, elbow, knee, or ankle.

Doctors may use different terms to describe a tendon injury.

  • Tendinitis means "inflammation of the tendon," but inflammation is rarely the cause of tendon pain.
  • Tendinosis or tendinopathy happens when a tendon is injured and doesn't heal as it should.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.