The tendon is a thick fibrous cord that connects muscle to bone and allows for joint movement. A tendon can be partially or completely torn due to certain conditions or situations. A completely torn tendon is termed a tendon rupture, and a partially torn tendon is termed tendonitis. A patient with joint or tendon pain should understand the causes of tendon tears and seek medical treatment if he experiences one.
Injury
MayoClinic.com states that a complete or partial tendon tear may result from trauma related to car accidents, sports injuries or from other sudden forces placed on the body. These sudden forces can overstretch a joint, which may result in the overstretching of a tendon and cause it to rupture or partially tear. A doctor will perform the proper examination and test so that he may be able to form the proper treatment plan to heal the torn tendon.
Repetitive Movements
Participating in sports or other hobbies that overuse a particular joint may result in a tendon tear. MayoClinic.com states that repetitive movements over time may result in tendonitis, or a partial tendon tear. Hobbies such as tennis, baseball, football, or work activities such as painting or construction work may result in damage to the tendon. A patient experiencing a torn tendon from repetitive movement will benefit from resting the affected joint. In addition, a doctor may prescribe medications or physical therapy to allow the tendon to heal. In cases of a completely torn tendon, surgery may be necessary.
Systemic Diseases
MedlinePlus states that a patient with body-wide, or systemic, disease may be at a higher risk for developing a tendon tear. Systemic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes may cause weakening of tendons. This occurs because these diseases may result in the autoimmune injury or a limitation of nutrient delivery to tendons in the body. Because these tendons are damaged or lack nutrients, a small force to a joint may result in a tendon rupture that would not occur in a healthy individual. Controlling the underlying systemic disease can strengthen the tendons and decrease the risk of a tendon rupture.
