What does tendinosis primarily involve?

Tendinosis primarily involves the breakdown of tendon tissue. This condition is characterized by degenerative changes that occur within the tendon due to repetitive stress and overuse, rather than inflammation. Unlike tendinitis, which is associated with inflammation of the tendon, tendinosis represents a chronic condition where the tendon experiences frequent micro-traumas, leading to a degeneration of the tendon fibers.

This breakdown may include changes at the cellular level, such as an increase in ground substance and a decrease in collagen fibers, leading to altered structural integrity and function of the tendon. While factors like inflammation, swelling, and overuse are often associated with tendinopathy in general, tendinosis itself specifically reflects the degenerative aspect, making it crucial to distinguish this condition from others like tendinitis, where inflammation is the primary characteristic.