What Are Tendons and Why Are They So Important?

If you’ve ever had a lingering ache in your Achilles, elbow, or shoulder, you’ve likely dealt with a tendon issue. But what are tendons, exactly-and why do they matter so much when it comes to pain, recovery, and performance?

At Bondi Sports Massage, we treat a high number of clients dealing with tendon-related pain. Whether it’s from training, posture, or overuse, understanding tendon structure helps us deliver smarter, more effective treatments-through sports massage, remedial massage, and movement education.

What Are Tendons?

Tendons are strong, fibrous connective tissues that anchor muscle to bone. Without them, muscles couldn’t generate force or movement. While muscles are elastic and contractile, tendons are built for tension and transmitting load.

Think of tendons like tough cables-they’re made mostly of collagen (type I), which gives them stiffness and durability.

Tendon Structure: A Closer Look

Tendons have a unique structure that makes them different from muscles:

• Fascicles - Bundles of collagen fibres aligned in the direction of force.

• Endotenon & Epitenon - Layers that surround each fascicle and the whole tendon, allowing it to glide smoothly.

• Cells (Tenocytes) - Responsible for tendon repair and adaptation.

• Low blood supply - Tendons have limited circulation, which is why they heal more slowly than muscles.

This structure allows tendons to store and release elastic energy-essential for running, jumping, or any explosive movement. But it also makes them prone to overload and degeneration.

How Tendons Get Injured

Tendon injuries often result from chronic overload, poor biomechanics, or sudden changes in activity. Some common tendon-related conditions we see at Bondi Sports Massage include:

• Achilles tendinopathy - Pain or stiffness in the heel/ankle, especially in runners.

• Patellar tendinopathy - Often called "jumper’s knee."

• Tennis elbow - Affects the common extensor tendon in the forearm.

• Rotator cuff tendinopathy - Shoulder pain, especially with overhead lifting.

• Gluteal tendinopathy - Common in walkers, runners, and those who sit often.

These are classic cases where sports massage and remedial massage in Bondi Junction play a crucial role in recovery.

How Massage Helps with Tendon Issues

While massage doesn’t “fix” tendon structure directly, it supports healing in several key ways:

✅ Increases local circulation - Stimulates blood flow to help bring nutrients to the area✅ Releases surrounding muscle tension - Reduces strain on the affected tendon✅ Improves fascial glide - Enhances movement and tissue hydration✅ Promotes neural relaxation - Helps downregulate pain sensitivity

At Bondi Sports Massage, we use techniques like deep tissue massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and active release-paired with loading advice and mobility drills to support tendon health.

Why You Need to Load Tendons (Not Just Stretch Them)

One key point we often explain to clients: tendons don’t get better from rest and stretching alone. They need progressive loading-slow, controlled, often isometric or eccentric movements that stimulate collagen repair and realignment.

This is where we often guide clients after treatment-especially those receiving remedial massage in Bondi Junction for chronic or stubborn tendon issues.

Final Thoughts

Tendons are more than just passive tissues-they're dynamic, adaptable, and critical for pain-free movement. If you're dealing with tendon-related pain, don't ignore it or rely solely on stretching.

At Bondi Sports Massage, we specialise in treating tendon-related issues using evidence-based sports massage, clinical remedial massage, and smart movement advice. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or trying to move better long term, we’re here to help.

📅 Book your appointment today and get personalised care from Bondi's trusted massage clinic.