Are You At Risk for Tendinopathy?
Published: Jun 26, 2024
Tendinopathy is a condition that can sneak up on you, but understanding the risk factors can help you dodge this painful bullet.
Contents
Intrinsic Risk Factors
Intrinsic factors are personal characteristics that affect your risk of tendinopathy. Age is a significant factor, as tendons lose their ability to repair themselves with advancing age. Other intrinsic factors include gender, with some tendinopathies more common in males, and biomechanical issues like flat feet or joint stiffness that can predispose someone to tendon problems.
Extrinsic Risk Factors
Extrinsic factors relate to external influences that increase tendinopathy risk. These include training errors like sudden increases in activity levels or inadequate rest. Environmental conditions such as hard surfaces or poor ergonomics and inadequate equipment like old footwear can also contribute. Managing these factors through gradual training progressions and proper equipment can reduce your risk.
The Impact of Lifestyle and Health
Lifestyle choices and overall health can impact tendinopathy risk. Metabolic disorders, even minor ones like increased waist size, can predispose individuals to tendinopathy. In addition, certain medications and lifestyle factors such as poor ergonomics at work can exacerbate the risk. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and being mindful of these factors can help keep your tendons healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Age, gender, and biomechanical issues are key intrinsic factors.
Training errors, poor equipment, and harsh environments are major extrinsic risks.
Yes, metabolic health and medication use can impact risk.
Gradual training increases and proper equipment use can help.
Key Takeaways
Could adjusting your lifestyle now prevent painful tendon issues later?
Next steps: Discuss your personal risk factors for tendinopathy with Doctronic today.Related Articles
References
Maffulli N, Wong J, Almekinders LC. Types and epidemiology of tendinopathy. Clin Sports Med 2003; 22:675.
Renström P, Johnson RJ. Overuse injuries in sports. A review. Sports Med 1985; 2:316.
Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.