What is tendinopathy characterized by?

Tendinopathy is characterized by a disease of a tendon that is slow to heal. This term broadly encompasses conditions involving the tendons, which can result from overuse, degeneration, or microscopic tears due to repetitive strain. Unlike tendonitis, which is primarily an inflammatory condition, tendinopathy often refers to the chronic degeneration of the tendon tissue, leading to pain and dysfunction.

Additionally, the condition is typically associated with changes in the tendon structure that result from prolonged stress without adequate healing time, making recovery slower compared to acute injuries. This characteristic slow healing process is significant in understanding the management and treatment strategies for tendinopathy, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive rehabilitation approach to promote tendon recovery and strength.