Enthesopathy is a blanket term for any condition affecting the entheses — the attachment sites of bones to tendons or ligaments. Ensopathies develop from a disease or injury and may be temporary or chronic. Doctors can diagnose some cases based on symptoms and a physical exam alone, but additional imaging tests may be necessary to rule out other conditions. Many cases are preventable and treatable; medication and therapy can manage the symptoms and complications of chronic forms.

Advertisement
1.

What are Tendons and Ligaments?

Ligaments and tendons are connective tissues instrumental in musculoskeletal stability and mobility. Ligaments attach bone to bone at joints such as the knees, elbows, shoulders, and ankles. Tendons join bone to muscle, aiding in fluid movement and the structural integrity of the skeleton. Inflammation of tendons or ligaments impacts stability and movement.

enthesopathy enthesis ligament tendon bone Jan-Otto / Getty Images

Advertisement
2.

Symptoms and Signs of an Enthesopathy

Symptoms of an enthesopathy vary, though several general commonalities exist. Most forms present in a dull, aching pain or tenderness at the site of the inflammation that is made worse with movement or touch. Joint stiffness and swelling are also common, in addition to a reduced range of motion.

enthesopathy symptoms pain swelling stiffness ljubaphoto / Getty Images

Advertisement
3.

Diagnosing an Enthesopathy

A doctor can often diagnose an enthesopathy based on a physical exam and symptom history. During the exam, the doctor will check for range of motion and areas of tenderness. Diagnostic imaging such as an x-ray, ultrasound, or MRI may be necessary, most often to rule out other possible causes.

enthesopathy diagnosis treatment symptoms exam gilaxia / Getty Images

Advertisement
4.

Treatment

The most appropriate course of treatment is based on the cause of the inflammation, symptoms, and degree of discomfort. A doctor may prescribe medication to reduce pain and inflammation. Long-term medication therapy may be necessary for chronic forms of enthesopathy. Physical therapy is often beneficial for regaining and maintaining musculoskeletal mobility and strength.

enthesopathy treatment medicine physical therapy Sean Anthony Eddy / Getty Images

Advertisement
5.

What Causes an Enthesopathy?

Enthesopathies most often occur as a result of a chronic inflammatory disease of the joints or an injury. Inflammatory diseases, including arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, are characterized by progressive degeneration leading to permanent joint damage. Injuries may be acute but most often develop following long-term wear on a ligament, tendon, or joint.

enthesopathy chronic inflammatory disease injury GeorgHanf / Getty Images

Advertisement
6.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a chronic enthesopathy characterized by inflammation that affects the cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and lining of joints. Many experts believe the disease develops as a result of a genetic predisposition triggered by a virus or injury. Symptoms of arthritis include painful, stiff, and swollen joints. There is no cure, but doctors often prescribe medication to ease discomfort and slow the progression.

enthesopathy arthritis joint inflammation michellegibson / Getty Images

Advertisement
7.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the spine, hips, and pelvis. The cause of ankylosing spondylitis is not known, though research suggests genetics play a key role in its development. The disease presents in pain and stiffness in the areas affected, particularly the back and hips. The main goals of treatment are reducing pain and inflammation and preventing skeletal deformities.

enthesopathy ankylosing spondylitis inflammation spine JLGutierrez / Getty Images

Advertisement
8.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is an enthesopathy caused by inflammation of the ligament on the bottom of the foot, the plantar fascia. The telltale symptom of plantar fasciitis is a sharp pain in the heal. This condition often occurs in long-distance runners, people who spend most of the day on their feet, and people with obesity. The condition is typically easy to diagnose and is often treated with rest, ice, stretching, and over-the-counter pain relievers.

enthesopathy plantar fasciitis ligament inflammation playb / Getty Images

Advertisement
9.

Tendinitis

Tendinitis is inflammation of a tendon due to an acute or long-term injury. Common forms of tendinitis include tennis elbow, swimmer's shoulder, and jumper's knee. Most people experience swelling, tenderness, and dull, aching pain in and around the affected areas. In most cases, rest, ice, and non-prescription pain relief medication are sufficient to treat tendinitis.

enthesopathy tendinitis tendon inflammation Liliboas / Getty Images

Advertisement
10.

Preventing Enthesopathies

An enthesopathy occurring as a result of injury or overuse is often preventable. Many complications and uncomfortable symptoms of the conditions underlying chronic forms of enthesopathy can be avoided or alleviated, also. Engaging in regular physical activity and targeted muscle exercises and maintaining good posture and a healthy weight are vital in supporting strong tendons, ligaments, and bones. Treating minor inflammation with rest, elevation, and hot or cold therapy is important to prevent exacerbating the problem. Identifying and adapting activities or movements that aggravate chronic inflammation can also reduce the likelihood of complications.

enthesopathy prevention activity exercise PredragImages / Getty Images
Advertisement
Did you find this page helpful?
YesNo
logo

Why Facty?

With a dedicated team of over 75, including writers, editors, and medical experts, we’re committed to bringing you the most comprehensive, up-to-date health information you can rely on.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Popular Now on Facty Health


Disclaimer

This site offers information designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on any information on this site as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or as a substitute for, professional counseling care, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.