The short answer
Tendon problems can cause pain with movement or loading near a joint. They often follow repeated activity, although a sudden injury can also affect a tendon. A painful tendon and a torn tendon are not interchangeable diagnoses.
Understanding the problem
Tendons connect muscle to bone. Symptoms can make gripping, lifting, running or jumping uncomfortable, depending on the site. A sudden snap with a major loss of function needs prompt assessment. Persistent symptoms also deserve review to establish what tissue is involved.
Care and next steps
Management may involve temporary load changes and a tailored rehabilitation programme. The right level of exercise depends on the diagnosis and stage of recovery. Repeatedly testing the painful activity at full intensity can make it difficult to judge progress.
Prepare for your consultation
Describe the activity you changed before symptoms began, including frequency and resistance. Tell the clinician what you can still do comfortably and what reliably causes pain. Ask how to adjust load, what response after exercise is acceptable for your condition and when to seek reassessment. Keep the programme written down so different exercises from several online sources do not accidentally become one excessive routine.
Common questions
Should I use the same exercise for every tendon problem?
No. Location, injury type and current capacity determine the appropriate rehabilitation plan.
Medical sources & further reading
This patient education guide was approved for publication by Dr Shahrukh Khan on 11 September 2026. It cannot diagnose your symptoms or replace a personalised clinical assessment. Editorial policy · About the doctor.