Tendinopathy is a broad term encompassing painful conditions occurring in and around tendons in response to overuse. Although acute inflammatory tendinopathies (i.e., tendinitis) exist, most patients seen in primary care will have chronic symptoms (tendinosis). Multimodality options (e.g., relative rest, activity modifications, physical or athletic therapy, etc.) should be considered as the first line treatment of tendinopathies. Opiates should not be used in the initial phase of treatment.
Sources:
Andres BM, et al. Treatment of tendinopathy: what works, what does not, and what is on the horizon. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2008;466:1539-54. PMID: 18446422.
Fanelli G, et al. Opioids for chronic non-cancer pain: a critical view from the other side of the pond. Minerva Anestesiol. 2016;82:97-102. PMID: 26173558.
Khan KM, et al. Histopathology of common tendinopathies. Update and implications for clinical management. Sports Med. 1999;27:393-408. PMID: 10418074.
Wilson JJ, et al. Common overuse tendon problems: A review and recommendations for treatment. Am Fam Physician. 2005;72:811-8. PMID: 16156339.
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