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Tendon Injury (Tendinopathy)

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A tendon injury means that you have irritated or damaged the tough fibres 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. This means "inflammation of the tendon," but inflammation is rarely the cause of tendon pain.
  • Tendinosis. This refers to tiny tears in the tissue in and around the tendon caused by overuse.
  • Tendinopathy describes these two problems together.

Is it an emergency?

If you or someone in your care has chest pains, difficulty breathing, or severe bleeding, it could be a life-threatening emergency. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number immediately.
If you are concerned about a possible poisoning or exposure to a toxic substance, call Poison Control now at 1-800-567-8911.

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