[Diagnosis and management of tendon problems].

Tendon problems of upper and lower extremity are common and can have impact on quality of life. The preferred terminology for load dependent tendon pain and loss of function is tendinopathy. The underlying pathophysiology of tendinopathy is complex and usually not a tendinitis. The Continuum of tendinopathy-model describes the role of load in 3 stages of tendinopathy which can be helpful in management of tendinopathy. Diagnosis of tendinopathy can be based on history and clinical examination. The role of imaging in diagnosis and prognosis is limited. Patient education, load management and progressive tendon loading exercises are the cornerstone of treatment. In case this approach fails there are several treatment options that can be considered, however there is only low or conflicting evidence on its effectiveness.