Which term describes degeneration without inflammation?

• A. Tendinitis
• B. Tendinosis
• C. Contracture
• D. Myofascial Trigger Points

Answer: (B)

Degeneration without an inflammatory response in a tendon is described as tendinosis. This term captures a chronic overuse process where the tendon’s collagen fibers become disorganized and damaged, with changes like mucoid degeneration and increased ground substance, often alongside neovascularization. There isn’t active inflammation driving the pain, which is why it’s distinct from an inflammatory tendinopathy.

Think of tendinitis as an acute inflammation of the tendon—pain and swelling with an inflammatory process. In contrast, tendinosis reflects long-standing, non-inflammatory degeneration of the tendon tissue that can persist even when inflammatory signs have faded.

The other terms don’t fit this scenario: a tendon undergoing contracture involves permanent tightening or shortening of tissue that limits movement, not a degenerative tendon condition. Myofascial trigger points are hyperirritable spots in muscle fascia that cause referred pain, not degeneration of tendon tissue.