Let’s start with a simple definition of each term:
Tendonitis
Rotator cuff tendonitis most often includes an active inflammation of one or more rotator cuff tendons.
This is an acute condition meaning it will last 2-3 days and is associated with a specific activity.
For example, a person who commonly works as an administrative assistant spending most of the day typing on a computer and answering telephone calls suddenly decides to paint all of the ceilings in his home. Going from 8 hours a day with his hands below his shoulder to 1 intense day of overhead reaching will cause an acute bout of rotator cuff tendonitis.
Another example of acute inflammation would be when a high school athlete goes from being sedentary in school or at home over summer vacation to starting high-intensity football training twice a day. That person will experience an acute bout of inflammation.
Acute tendonitis often responds positively to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids
Tendinosis
Tendinosis on the other hand is not often associated with acute inflammation.
This condition is often associated with degenerative changes to the tendon structure including a thickening of the tissue and histological changes.
Tendinosis is often long-lasting for 3-6 months or more and does not typically respond positively to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids.
Tendinopathy
Tendinopathy is the catch-all phrase that includes any tendon disease or pathology.
Tendinosis and tendonitis are both classified under the term tendinopathy.
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