Tendons connect muscles to bones and play an essential role in movement. A significant tendon injury can therefore cause more than pain. It may produce sudden weakness, loss of movement, difficulty bearing weight, or inability to perform a movement that was previously easy.
Rejoice Ortho Care And Polyclinic in Borivali evaluates tendon injuries to determine whether conservative management or tendon repair is appropriate.
How do tendon tears happen?
Some tendon tears occur suddenly during sports or an accident. Others develop in tissue that has gradually weakened because of repetitive stress or degenerative changes.
Common mechanisms include:
- Sudden acceleration or jumping
- Forceful lifting
- A fall
- Direct trauma
- Unexpected twisting
- Repetitive overuse
- Age-related tendon degeneration
Achilles, quadriceps, patellar, biceps, and certain shoulder tendons are examples of structures that may sustain significant tears.
Partial tear versus complete tear
A partial tendon tear means some fibres remain intact. Depending on the location and severity, it may be treated with activity modification, immobilisation, rehabilitation, and progressive strengthening.
A complete rupture separates the tendon substantially or completely. Certain complete tears may require surgical repair, particularly when the loss of function is significant.
How is the decision made?
The surgeon considers more than imaging findings. Important factors include the tendon involved, extent of damage, patient's age, activity requirements, time since injury, and overall health.
Clinical examination assesses strength and movement. Ultrasound or MRI can sometimes provide additional information about the location and extent of the tear.
Why does timing matter?
Certain tendon ruptures become more difficult to repair when treatment is delayed because the tendon may retract and surrounding tissues can change over time.
This does not mean every painful tendon requires urgent surgery. It means that sudden weakness or loss of function after an injury deserves timely assessment.
For active adults and sports participants in Borivali, Maharashtra, returning to activity safely is usually a gradual process. Whether treatment is surgical or non-surgical, structured rehabilitation plays a major role in restoring movement, strength, and confidence.
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