Tendonitis Treatment | Physio & Sports Therapy

Help for tendon pain

Tendon pain is common and often mismanaged. Rest on its own rarely sorts it out, and many people spend months avoiding activity only to find the pain returns when they get back to sport or training.

Our physiotherapists and sports therapists use progressive loading programmes, the cornerstone of tendon rehab, alongside hands-on care to help you get back to full activity safely.

Progressive tendon loading programmes

Soft tissue therapy and load management advice

Physiotherapists and sports therapists in one team

Keep training where possible, with smart changes

Return-to-sport planning

No GP referral needed to book

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Which tendon is causing your pain?

Tendon pain can affect almost any joint. A proper assessment helps us match the loading programme to your tendon.

Achilles Tendinopathy

Pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon, usually worse in the morning or after activity. Common in runners, gym-goers and active adults.

Patellar Tendinopathy

Pain at the front of the knee below the kneecap, often called jumper's knee. Common in people who run, jump or squat heavily.

Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy

Irritation of the rotator cuff tendons, causing pain with overhead movements, pressing or reaching. Common in gym-goers and overhead athletes.

Tennis & Golfer's Elbow

Overuse tendon problems on the outside or inside of the elbow, causing pain with gripping, lifting or wrist movements.

Gluteal Tendinopathy

Irritation of the gluteal tendons at the hip, causing pain on the outside of the hip that is worse with long spells of sitting, crossing your legs or standing on one leg.

Tibialis Posterior Tendinopathy

Pain along the inner ankle and arch, sometimes linked to flatter feet. It can limit walking and running if left alone.

When to see a doctor first

Please contact your GP, call NHS 111, or call 999 in an emergency, rather than booking with us, if you have:

A sudden snap or pop with immediate weakness, such as being unable to push off on your foot: see your GP or go to a minor injuries unit promptly

A hot, red, swollen area with a fever: seek urgent medical help

Tendon pain after starting a new medicine, especially certain antibiotics: speak to your GP or pharmacist

Tendon pain help near you

Tendon rehab needs steady, well-planned loading. We guide tendon programmes at our clinics in Cambridge, Saffron Walden, Sawston and Willingham, and in Bishop's Stortford, where you can also train in our strength classes.

32 Raynham Road, Bishop's Stortford, CM23 5PE

Tendonitis questions answered

What's the difference between tendonitis and tendinopathy?

Tendonitis suggests inflammation of a tendon, while tendinopathy is a broader term for ongoing tendon pain and changes in the tendon. Most long-standing tendon pain is tendinopathy. Both are usually managed with a structured loading programme.

What causes tendon pain?

It's usually linked to overuse, doing too much, too soon, without enough recovery. A sudden jump in training, poor technique, strength imbalances or returning too quickly after a break can all play a part. Age-related tendon changes can also contribute.

How is tendon pain managed?

Modern tendon rehab focuses on progressive loading, gradually increasing the load the tendon can handle. We combine this with hands-on care and activity changes. Complete rest is rarely recommended, as tendons need load to stay strong.

How long does tendon pain take to settle?

Tendons tend to respond slowly, so consistency with your loading programme matters. We'll give you realistic expectations at your first appointment and review your progress regularly.

Should I use ice or heat for tendon pain?

For a recently flared tendon, ice may help ease pain for a short time. For long-standing tendon pain, some people find heat before activity helps them feel looser. Neither replaces a structured loading programme.

"Highly recommend for running-related issues. Jess put together a clear plan to get me ready for my marathon, and her communication was excellent throughout. Thank you!"

"Referred after an increasingly painful knee was impacting on my exercise. Hannah was very thorough in her investigation and analysis of the problem. I noticed a steady but sustained improvement following the recommended exercises over the first week. The exercises were subsequently changed up and the improvement sustained over the next two weeks. What definitely helped was the link between the Injury Active Clinic and the Barn. Hannah provided a briefing for the coaches, ensuring the gym sessions reinforced the recommended physio programme."

"Jess was so lovely and supportive throughout my time with her. She really helped build my confidence and get me back to doing the sports I love! I'm so grateful for all her help and would highly recommend :)"

Book a Pain & Movement Assessment

Rather than resting and hoping it settles, get it looked at. Your assessment gives you a clear explanation of what we think is going on, a plan, and a way to measure your progress.

Book an Assessment

Assessment

A thorough look at your history, how you move and what aggravates it, so we understand what's driving your symptoms.

Your Plan

A clear plan with realistic goals and the right mix of hands-on care and exercise for you.

Build Back Up

Progressive strength and movement work so you can get back to full activity with confidence.

Tendonitis &
Tendinopathy

Help for tendon pain