Tendonitis Massage

A Tendonitis Massage is a targeted manual therapy focused on reducing inflammation, breaking down scar tissue, and restoring healthy mobility in affected tendons and adjacent muscles. The approach varies by location and stage of healing, aiming to relieve pain, increase blood flow, and improve function.​

Signs & Symptoms

  • Localized pain and tenderness at or near a tendon, especially with movement or palpation

  • Stiffness, swelling, and sometimes warmth at the affected site

  • Decreased strength and flexibility in the related joint or muscle group

  • Pain worsened by repetitive activity or loading of the tendon

  • Crepitus (grating sensation) in some chronic cases.​

Contraindications

  • Avoid massage during the acute inflammation phase (severe pain, marked swelling, redness, heat)

  • Do not treat if there is an infection, open wound, recent rupture, or suspected blood clot

  • Caution with deep tissue work in presence of acute pain, anti-inflammatory medications, or systemic conditions

  • Intensity and technique should always be tailored to the client’s tolerance and stage of recovery.​

Assessment

  • Gather detailed history: symptom duration, activity triggers, location, and prior interventions

  • Palpate tendons and surrounding tissues for thickening, nodules, adhesions, and pain points

  • Observe range of motion, strength, and quality of movement at the affected joint

  • Assess for compensatory movement patterns and contributing biomechanical factors.​

Treatment

  • Gentle effleurage and petrissage to warm up tissues and increase circulation

  • Deep tissue massage and myofascial release for tension and adhesions in related muscles (progress as tolerated)​

  • Cross-fiber friction massage (transverse friction) applied perpendicular to the tendon fibers to break down scar tissue and stimulate healing​

  • Ice massage immediately post-treatment for pain and inflammation modulation​

  • Incorporate stretching and joint mobilization after massage, as appropriate

  • Treatment should be consistent and progressive, avoiding over-treatment that increases pain.​

Self Care

  • Rest from aggravating activities until pain subsides

  • Self-massage with moderate pressure, focusing on muscles attached to the affected tendon

  • Apply ice after exercise or self-massage to manage inflammation​

  • Gentle stretching and progressive strengthening of involved muscles and tendons

  • Address ergonomics, footwear, and training modifications to prevent recurrence

  • Follow professional guidance and seek medical reassessment if symptoms persist