Tendons are the strong fibres that connect muscle to bone, playing a crucial role in joint movement and stability. Overuse, injury, or age-related changes can lead to tendon disorders that cause ongoing pain, weakness, and reduced mobility.

Mr. Ali Raza, an experienced orthopaedic consultant in Glasgow and Stirling, specialises in the diagnosis and management of tendon conditions affecting the hip, knee, shoulder, and ankle. This guide explains the most common tendon problems, how they’re treated, and what to expect from recovery.

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What Are Tendon Disorders?

Tendon disorders refer to conditions that affect the health or function of tendons. They commonly result from repetitive stress, degeneration, or trauma. Some of the most common tendon conditions include:

• Tendinitis (inflammation of the tendon)
• Tendinosis (chronic tendon degeneration without inflammation)
• Tendon ruptures or tears
• Enthesopathy (disorders at the tendon-bone junction)

These conditions often develop in weight-bearing joints or areas exposed to repetitive motion, such as the hip flexors, patellar tendon (knee), Achilles tendon (ankle), or rotator cuff (shoulder).

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Who Can Benefit from Tendon Disorder Treatment?

Tendon disorders can affect people of all ages but are more common in:

• Athletes and active individuals
• People with repetitive occupational movements
• Older adults with age-related wear
• Patients with underlying joint issues like arthritis or instability

You may benefit from specialist treatment if you experience:

• Persistent pain near a joint or tendon
• Swelling or tenderness over a tendon
• Weakness or reduced range of motion
• Difficulty bearing weight or using the joint
• A snapping or popping sensation during movement

Mr. Raza provides expert consultations in Glasgow and Stirling to assess tendon injuries and tailor treatment plans based on the severity of the problem and your activity level.

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Treatment for Tendon Disorders in Glasgow and Stirling

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Diagnosis and Assessment

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. During your consultation, Mr. Raza will:

• Review your medical and activity history
• Perform a targeted physical examination
• Use advanced imaging (ultrasound or MRI) if needed

Tendon conditions are often misdiagnosed or mistaken for joint or muscle issues, so it’s important to be seen by an experienced orthopaedic specialist.

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Treatment Options for Tendon Disorders

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the tendon injury. Mr. Raza offers a full range of non-surgical and surgical treatments, including:

Non-Surgical Options

• Physiotherapy: Specialised rehabilitation to stretch and strengthen the affected tendon
• Medications: Anti-inflammatories or pain relief as appropriate
• Activity modification: Adjusting load and movement to prevent further damage
• Bracing or orthotics: To offload the tendon and aid healing
• Corticosteroid injections: Used cautiously for inflammation
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy: In selected cases, to support tendon healing

Surgical Treatments

Surgery may be required if:

• The tendon is torn or ruptured
• Conservative treatment has failed
• There’s ongoing dysfunction or severe pain

Mr. Raza uses minimally invasive techniques where possible to repair or reconstruct damaged tendons, aiming for a faster recovery and lower risk of complications.

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Common Tendon Conditions Treated by Mr. Raza

• Gluteal tendinopathy (hip)
• Patellar tendinitis or jumper’s knee (knee)
• Achilles tendinopathy and rupture (ankle)
• Rotator cuff tears and tendinitis (shoulder)
• Hamstring or quadriceps tendon injuries

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Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery time depends on the nature of the tendon disorder and the chosen treatment. Typical recovery timelines include:

• Mild tendinopathy: 4–8 weeks of physiotherapy and load management
• Partial tendon tears: 2–3 months of structured rehab
• Post-surgery: 3–6 months for most tendon repairs, including progressive strengthening and return to full activity

Mr. Raza works closely with specialist physiotherapists to ensure that your rehabilitation is personalised and focused on long-term recovery.

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Risks and Complications

Most patients recover well with the right treatment plan, but tendon disorders can become chronic if not properly managed. Risks include:

• Tendon re-injury
• Stiffness or weakness after surgery
• Delayed healing
• Scar tissue formation

Mr. Raza takes a conservative approach where possible and uses the latest surgical techniques to minimise complications and support optimal outcomes.

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Why Choose Mr. Ali Raza for Tendon Disorder Treatment?

Mr. Ali Raza is a leading orthopaedic consultant with specialist expertise in diagnosing and treating tendon disorders affecting the hip and knee. Patients choose his care because of:

• Access to two of Scotland’s top private hospitals in Glasgow and Stirling
• Expert treatment of complex and chronic tendon injuries using the latest techniques
• Minimally invasive procedures that support quicker healing and less downtime
• Personalised recovery plans with dedicated physiotherapy support

Whether you’re dealing with persistent tendinopathy, a torn tendon, or ongoing pain after an injury, Mr. Raza can provide the clarity, treatment, and support you need to get back to your normal life.

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FAQs

What causes tendon disorders?
Overuse, repetitive strain, ageing, poor biomechanics, and trauma are common causes.

Is surgery always required for tendon injuries?
No, many tendon disorders can be treated without surgery. Surgery is typically considered for full tears or persistent symptoms.

How long is recovery from a tendon procedure?
Recovery ranges from several weeks for mild cases to several months after surgical repair, depending on the tendon and severity of injury.

Can I return to sport after tendon treatment?
Yes, many patients return to sport or activity after treatment. A graded rehab plan supports a safe return.

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Book Your Consultation

If you’re struggling with pain or reduced mobility from a tendon injury or disorder, Mr. Ali Raza can help. Contact us today to book a consultation at one of Mr. Raza’s private clinics in Glasgow or Stirling and take the first step toward recovery.