Tenex Procedure For Chronic Tendon Pain Management
The Tenex Health procedure is a non-surgical option that may help reduce chronic tendon pain. This approach removes damaged tissue to support the body’s healing process and offers a potential alternative to typical surgery. It is designed to help patients return to daily activities with less recovery time.
Developed in collaboration with the world-renown MAYO Clinic, Tenex Health technology has been shown to improve overall functionality and significantly decrease pain in the treatment of tendonitis in the elbow, hip, knee, ankle, and plantar fasciitis pain in the foot.
Targeted, Focused Treatment For Persistent Tendon Pain
The Tenex procedure is a non-surgical option that can help reduce chronic tendon pain. This approach removes damaged tissue while supporting the healthy structures around it. Potential benefits include:
- Ultrasound-Guided Approach: Physicians use real-time imaging to target damaged tendon tissue, which may help limit the impact on surrounding areas.
- Simple Recovery: Most patients require only a small adhesive bandage, which can help reduce the risk of complications.
- Quicker Return to Activity: This procedure is less invasive than surgery and may offer a faster recovery compared to typical surgical options.
- Tissue-Preserving Method: This approach removes only the damaged tissue to help preserve healthy structures essential for movement.
- Single Procedure: Many patients only require a treatment once, which may reduce overall time and cost compared to ongoing therapies.
- Established Use: This technique has been performed over 90,000 times, offering a widely used option for those considering this approach.
- Positive Research: Studies suggest this approach may help reduce pain and improve function.
Conditions That May Benefit From The Tenex Procedure
The Tenex procedure is used to treat chronic soft tissue conditions often related to overuse or aging. This approach can help reduce pain and improve movement for several conditions, including:
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): Discomfort on the outside of the elbow, often from repetitive arm or wrist movement.
- Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis): Similar to tennis elbow, but it affects the inner side of the elbow.
- Plantar Fasciitis: Heel or arch pain related to the thick band of tissue in the foot.
- Achilles Tendinopathy: Stiffness in the back of the ankle, typically from overuse or strain.
- Patellar or Quadriceps Tendinopathy: Discomfort at the front of the knee, often seen in active individuals.
- Chronic Tendinosis: Long-term wear on a tendon that may result from repetitive stress.
- Patellar Tendon Pain: Irritation of the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone.
How The Tenex Procedure Works
The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting using local anesthesia. This approach is designed to remove damaged tendon tissue while supporting the healthy structures around it.
Ultrasound Imaging
Physicians in the licensed Regenexx network use ultrasound imaging to target the area of damaged tendon tissue. This imaging helps guide the procedure to the specific site of the injury.
Local Anesthesia and Micro-Incision
The area is numbed with local anesthesia to help reduce discomfort. A small opening—typically about 1/4 inch—is made to reach the damaged tissue.
Ultrasonic Removal Of Damaged Tissue
Physicians use a specialized tool to deliver ultrasonic energy. This energy breaks down and removes damaged tendon tissue while preserving healthy tissue. This process can also support the body’s natural healing agents in the area.
Closure With A Small Adhesive Bandage
Stitches are not required because the opening is so small. A simple adhesive bandage is used to protect the area. Most patients can drive themselves home since only local anesthesia is typically used.
Gradual Return To Normal Activity
Patients can often resume light activities shortly after the procedure. Typical recovery involves a gradual return to normal activities over 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the condition and the individual’s healing response.
Clinical studies have shown that patient recovery times are 6-8 weeks when Tenex Health technology is used1,5 for treating chronic tendon pain, compared to the 7-8 months for recovery after conventional surgery10.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about the Tenex procedure. This information can help when exploring this non-surgical treatment option.
Physicians in the licensed Regenexx network numb the area using local anesthesia. During the procedure, most patients report feeling only mild pressure in the area being treated.
This approach uses recent advances in medical technology. Not all physicians are trained in these proprietary methods, which may be why it hasn’t been discussed as an option for care.
Over 90,000 of these procedures have been performed since 2012. Research suggests a low rate of complications, and many patients report improvements in pain and function. Because individual outcomes may vary, a thorough evaluation is necessary to understand the potential risks and benefits.
The procedure is less invasive than surgery, but physicians will review possible risks before treatment. Common side effects are usually mild and may include:
- Temporary skin changes or swelling around the opening
- Soreness in the treated area
A physician can determine if this approach is right for a specific case. It may be a recommended option for those who have had tendon or plantar fascia pain for over three months that has not improved with rest.
The procedure is performed by physicians trained in musculoskeletal care who are licensed to use these specific treatment protocols.
The Tenex procedure typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes. Because only local anesthesia is used, most patients return home the same day.
Unlike typical surgery, this procedure requires only a small opening and no stitches. It is designed to remove damaged tissue with less impact on healthy structures, which could lead to a shorter recovery time.
This procedure may be an option for individuals with chronic tendon pain or plantar fasciitis that has not improved with rest or typical conservative care. Physicians in the licensed Regenexx network perform a thorough evaluation to determine if this approach is a recommended option for a specific condition.
Cost varies depending on the provider and insurance coverage. Many insurance plans may cover the procedure if it is recommended for a medical need. Contact a provider’s office for details about pricing.
