questions to ask before tendon

Overview

Tendons are strong, flexible cords that connect muscle to bone. If a tendon gets torn or damaged, you may need surgery to repair it. This article is a guide to the questions you should ask your healthcare team before having tendon surgery. It can help you feel prepared and confident about your treatment.

Tendon problems are common. They can happen from sports injuries, falls, or wear and tear with age. Surgery to repair a tendon is a well-established and frequently performed operation.

Tendon injuries can affect anyone, but they are most common in athletes, active adults, and older people whose tendons become weaker with age.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pain or aching in a joint or along a tendon
• Swelling or tenderness near the injury
• Weakness or difficulty moving the joint normally
• A popping or tearing sensation at the time of injury

Symptoms in children

• A child may say 'it hurts' and refuse to move the affected arm or leg
• You may notice swelling or bruising over a tendon area
• A child may not use the injured hand, shoulder, or knee

Symptoms in older adults

• Pain or stiffness that gets worse with activity
• Difficulty doing daily tasks, such as lifting or gripping
• A feeling of heaviness or weakness in the affected limb

Causes

Main causes

• Sudden injury, such as a fall or twisting movement
• Forceful or repetitive movements over time
• A direct blow to the tendon
• Wear and tear from ageing

Risk factors

• Playing sports that involve sprinting, jumping, or throwing
• Jobs or hobbies that require repetitive wrist, knee, or ankle movements
• Taking certain medicines that may affect tendons (check with your doctor)
• Having diabetes or other health conditions that weaken tendons

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have severe pain or cannot move the joint at all
• If the area looks deformed or you heard a pop and cannot bear weight or use the limb
• If you have numbness or coldness in the hand or foot

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have persistent pain or weakness that does not improve with rest
• If you have difficulty doing normal activities
• If you are considering treatment options and want to ask questions

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your symptoms and how you were injured. They will examine the area and may ask you to move it in certain ways. To be sure, they may use imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI scan, to look at the tendon and see the extent of the damage.

Tests that may be done

• Physical examination and movement tests
• Ultrasound – a sound-wave imaging test that can show tendon tears
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) – a detailed scan of soft tissues
• X-ray – usually to check for bone injuries, but can help in some cases

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will explain your diagnosis and discuss treatment options. Before any surgery, you may meet a surgeon and an anaesthetist. They should give you plenty of time to ask questions. This is a good time to bring your list of questions and go through them together.

Treatment

Treatment for a tendon problem depends on the location and severity. Some injuries heal without surgery. Others need surgical repair. Your healthcare team may recommend a plan that combines pain relief (without specific drug names), rest, physical therapy, and possibly surgery. The goal is to reduce pain, restore strength, and improve movement.

Self-care at home

• Rest the area and avoid activities that cause pain
• Apply ice wrapped in a cloth for short periods (for example, 15–20 minutes several times a day)
• Use a cushion or splint if it helps, but ask your healthcare provider first
• Follow a guided physical therapy programme to regain strength and motion

Medical treatments

For many tendon problems, physical therapy is the first treatment. Some people may benefit from other treatments such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections or similar procedures. Your doctor will recommend what is suitable for you based on your specific injury, age, and activity level. You should ask what each treatment involves, how long it takes to work, and what side effects you might expect.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery may be recommended if the tendon is completely torn, if symptoms do not improve with non-surgical treatment, or if the injury prevents important daily movements. There are different surgical techniques depending on the tendon involved. Ask your surgeon what type of repair is planned, what the recovery looks like, and what you need to do before and after the operation.

Living with this condition

Living with a tendon injury can be frustrating, but there is a lot you can do. You may need to adjust how you do certain movements at home and work. Use assistive devices like long-handled tools or a walking stick if recommended. Always follow your healthcare team’s advice about how much activity is safe during recovery.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep up with your physical therapy exercises – even when you feel fine
• Try to stay positive and patient; recovery takes time
• Ask for help when you need it, whether with chores or personal care
• If you are working, talk to your employer about a gradual return to duties

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet with enough protein, vitamins, and minerals can support healing. But do not start any special diet without evidence. Gentle exercise, such as walking or swimming, may be allowed as part of your recovery, but always ask your doctor or physiotherapist before increasing your activity level.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A tendon injury and surgery can affect your mood. It is normal to feel anxious, frustrated, or low, especially if you cannot do the activities you enjoy. Remember that your mental health matters too. Speak to your healthcare team if you feel very low, and do not hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional for support.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent a tendon injury, but you can reduce your risk. Start with a proper warm-up before exercise, increase your activity level gradually, and give your body enough rest between intense workouts. Strengthening the muscles around your joints also helps protect your tendons.

Complications

If left untreated

• The tendon may not heal, leaving you with lasting weakness
• You may lose some range of motion in the joint
• Daily activities such as lifting or climbing stairs may become difficult

Long-term outlook

The outlook after a tendon repair is generally very good. Many people return to their normal activities within a few months. Some may need more time, and the final result often depends on how you follow your rehabilitation plan. Talk to your surgeon about what you can expect in your particular case. There is good reason to be hopeful.

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