tendon day of procedure tips

Overview

A tendon is a tough, flexible band of tissue that connects muscle to bone. A tendon procedure is a treatment, often surgery, to repair a tendon that is torn, inflamed, or causing lasting problems. This article focuses on how to prepare for the day of your tendon procedure and what to expect.

Tendon procedures are common. Many people have surgery for tendon problems such as Achilles tendon rupture, rotator cuff tears, or tennis elbow every year.

Tendon problems can affect anyone, but procedures are most often needed by adults who play sports, do repetitive lifting, or have had a recent injury. Older adults may also need tendon repair after age-related wear and tear.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Persistent pain along a tendon, especially when moving the affected limb.
• Tenderness and swelling over the tendon area.
• Weakness or difficulty lifting, pulling, or pushing with the affected muscle.
• A popping or snapping sensation with sudden pain during an injury.
• Stiffness that does not improve with rest or ice.

Symptoms in children

• Pain after a fall or during sports that does not settle within a few days.
• Limping or favouring an arm or leg without a clear reason.
• Swelling or bruising near a joint.

Symptoms in older adults

• Sudden weakness or pain in the shoulder, heel, or thigh after lifting or twisting.
• Difficulty walking or rising from a chair due to tendon pain.
• A sensation of giving way in a joint, such as the shoulder or knee.

Causes

Main causes

• A sudden injury or fall that overstretches a tendon.
• Repetitive overuse from sports, work, or hobbies that wear down the tendon.
• Age-related degeneration of tendon tissue, making it easier to tear.

Risk factors

• Playing sports that involve sudden stopping, jumping, or throwing, such as tennis, basketball, or volleyball.
• Working in jobs that require heavy lifting or repetitive arm movements.
• Having certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes.
• Taking certain medicines that can weaken tendons, such as some antibiotics or steroids (always ask your doctor).

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have sudden symptoms that make it impossible to move a joint or stand on the affected leg, seek care the same day.
• If you can feel a gap in the tendon or see an open wound with severe bleeding, go to an emergency department.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have ongoing pain, swelling, or weakness in a tendon that has not improved after several days of rest and home care.
• If you have a known tendon injury that prevents you from your usual activities.

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, examine the area, and check how well you can move the joint. They may also use imaging to look at the tendon inside your body.

Tests that may be done

• Ultrasound – a painless scan that shows the tendon and its movement.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – a detailed image that can show small tears or inflammation.
• X-ray – sometimes used to rule out a bone injury.

What to expect at your appointment

Your care team will explain what they find and discuss your treatment options. If a tendon problem is significant and does not respond to conservative care, they may recommend a referral to a bone and joint specialist (orthopaedic surgeon).

Treatment

Treatment for tendon problems usually starts with rest, ice, and physiotherapy. If these do not help, or if the tendon is fully torn, a procedure may be needed. The day of your procedure involves specific steps to keep you safe and comfortable.

Self-care at home

• Follow your healthcare team's advice about stopping food and drink – usually from midnight the night before.
• Take only the medicines you have been told to take on the day of the procedure, with a small sip of water if allowed.
• Shower and wear clean, loose clothing. Do not wear lotion, makeup, deodorant, or jewellery.
• Bring a list of all your medicines, allergies, and a personal item like a phone charger.
• After the procedure, keep the limb raised and use ice as directed to reduce swelling.

Medical treatments

Your healthcare provider may recommend non-surgical treatments such as physiotherapy, splints, or ultrasound-guided injections. Surgical repair is done under local or general anaesthesia. During surgery, the surgeon may stitch torn tendon ends together, reattach the tendon to bone, or remove damaged tissue. Your team will give you specific instructions for pain relief and wound care after the procedure.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is usually recommended when the tendon is fully torn, or when pain and weakness have not improved after several weeks of conservative treatment. Your surgeon will explain the exact type of procedure and recovery plan.

Living with this condition

After a tendon procedure, you will need to follow a careful plan. You may use a sling, splint, or crutches to protect the tendon as it heals. You will likely need help with daily tasks for the first few days. Keep the wound dry and follow your team's advice about changing the dressing and returning to activities.

Lifestyle tips

• Do not drive until your healthcare team says you are safe to do so.
• Avoid heavy lifting, repetitive movements, or sports until your doctor or physiotherapist gives you the go-ahead.
• Take short, gentle walks as allowed to keep circulation moving.
• Sleep in a comfortable position that does not put pressure on the healing tendon.

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, vegetables, and whole grains to support healing. Stay hydrated. Once your team says it is safe, begin gentle range-of-motion exercises as directed. Physiotherapy is often essential to restore strength and movement gradually.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Recovery from a tendon procedure can be slow, and it is normal to feel frustrated or low at times. Be kind to yourself, set small goals, and talk to family or friends about how you feel. If you notice ongoing sadness or anxiety, speak to your healthcare team – they can point you to support.

Prevention

Not all tendon problems can be prevented, but you can lower your risk by staying active, warming up before exercise, using proper technique, and not overloading your tendons with sudden increases in activity.

Complications

If left untreated

• Long-term pain or weakness that affects daily activities.
• The tendon tear may become larger over time.
• The muscle may shorten or shrink, making future treatment harder.

Long-term outlook

With proper care and rehabilitation, most people recover well from a tendon procedure. Full recovery can take weeks to months, but following your treatment plan and being patient can help you return to the activities you enjoy.

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