What condition typically results from chronic irritation of a tendon?

Tendinopathy is a broad term that encompasses various tendon-related conditions, including tendinitis and tendinosis, characterized by chronic irritation or injury to a tendon. Chronic irritation can lead to degenerative changes in the tendon, resulting in pain, swelling, and functional limitations.

When a tendon becomes overly stressed due to repetitive movement or strain, tissue changes occur that can affect the tendon structure. This ongoing problem is a hallmark of tendinopathy, indicating that the tendon is not just inflamed (as seen in tendinitis) but has also undergone some degree of degeneration or structural damage.

In this context, understanding tendinopathy as a generalized condition helps encapsulate a range of symptoms and pathologies associated with tendon issues resulting from long-term stress, making it the most appropriate choice in this situation.