Rest Isn’t Always the Answer for Persistent Tendon Pain

There is a common assumption about tendon pain: stop using it, wait long enough, and it will eventually disappear.

Sometimes that works. Sometimes it does not.

Tendons adapt to repeated loading, which means a sudden change in activity can expose a problem that was developing before the pain became noticeable. Someone who returns to tennis after several weeks away may develop elbow pain. A weekend runner may notice Achilles soreness after increasing mileage. A person returning to weight training may develop persistent shoulder or elbow discomfort.

The frustrating part is that tendon pain can improve temporarily with rest and then return as soon as normal activity resumes. That does not necessarily mean the activity itself is the problem. It may mean the underlying tendon has not fully recovered or that the way it is being loaded needs to change.

For patients whose symptoms continue despite conservative care, treatment options depend on the tendon involved and the underlying diagnosis. Tendon and ligament injections and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy may be considered for certain appropriately selected patients. These treatments are not a substitute for proper diagnosis and are not appropriate for every tendon condition.

If persistent tendon pain is interfering with work, exercise, or the activities you normally enjoy, an evaluation can help determine what is actually causing it and what treatment options may be appropriate.

Integrative Sports & Spine sees patients at its Long Beach, Riverside, Alhambra, and City of Industry clinics. Call (833) 476-7377 or visit integrativesportsandspine.com to learn more.

Integrative Sports & Spine Locations

Long Beach Clinic: 2650 Elm Ave, Ste 210, Long Beach, CA 90806
Riverside Clinic: 3975 Jackson St, Ste 201, Riverside, CA 92503
Alhambra Clinic: 925 S Garfield Ave, Alhambra, CA 91801
City of Industry Clinic: 18605 E. Gale Ave, Ste 222, City of Industry, CA 91748

Phone: (833) 476-7377
Website: https://www.integrativesportsandspine.com/
Email: contact@issrehab.com