What is the most commonly recommended treatment for acute tendon injuries?

Rest and ice are critical components of the initial management of acute tendon injuries. The R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) protocol is widely regarded as the standard treatment approach. Resting the affected tendon helps prevent further injury and allows the healing process to begin. Ice application is effective in reducing swelling and alleviating pain by constricting blood vessels and numbing the area.

While anti-inflammatory medications can be beneficial for managing pain and inflammation, they are not typically the first line of treatment immediately following an acute injury. Surgery is reserved for more severe cases that do not respond to conservative management or where there is significant tendon damage. Heat therapy is generally contraindicated in the acute phase, as it can increase swelling and exacerbate pain.

Using rest and ice as the primary treatment serves to promote healing and provides a foundational approach for subsequent rehabilitation and recovery strategies.