Tenex® is a minimally invasive technology designed to treat chronic tendon disease at its source.
Tenex, also known as percutaneous ultrasonic tenotomy, is a minimally invasive treatment designed to address chronic tendon injuries and calcifications that have not responded to conservative care. Using advanced ultrasonic technology, Tenex allows physicians to precisely target and remove damaged tendon tissue—without the need for open surgery or prolonged recovery.
The Tenex procedure bridges the gap between traditional non-surgical treatments and surgery by enabling image-guided, tissue-selective removal of degenerative tendon tissue. By directly addressing the source of chronic tendon pain, Tenex helps relieve symptoms associated with tendinosis, also known as chronic tendinitis or chronic tendinopathy.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and requires only a small microincision, significantly reducing the risk of infection and scarring. Tenex technology uses a specialized needle that delivers ultrasonic energy to break down and remove diseased tendon tissue while preserving surrounding healthy tissue.
Tenex enables physicians to treat tendon degeneration, thickening, and calcifications efficiently in an outpatient setting. Most procedures take less than 30 minutes to complete. Because only damaged tissue is removed, patients typically experience minimal downtime and a gradual improvement in pain and function over the following weeks to months. In many cases, the incision is small enough to be closed with Steri-Strips rather than sutures.
Tenex offers a safe, effective option for patients seeking relief from chronic tendon pain—without the risks and recovery time associated with traditional surgery.
Conditions Commonly Treated with Tenex
Tenex may be recommended for patients experiencing pain from:
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Shoulder tendonitis (rotator cuff or biceps)
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Tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow (lateral or medial epicondylitis)
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Gluteal tendonitis (hip)
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Proximal hamstring tendonitis
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Patellar tendonitis (runner’s or jumper’s knee)
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Achilles tendonitis (ankle)
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Plantar fasciitis (foot or heel)
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Calcific deposits within tendons
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Pain caused by bone spurs or bony prominences
Tenex is a minimally invasive solution supported by clinical evidence and designed to help patients return to daily activities with less pain—without open surgery.
Benefits of Tenex Treatment May Include:
✔️ Rapid pain relief
✔️ Return to normal activity in 6–12 weeks (vs. 6+ months with open surgery)
✔️ One-time treatment
✔️ Performed with local anesthetic
✔️ No stitches—just a small adhesive bandage
✔️ Preserves surrounding healthy tendon
✔️ Stimulates the body’s natural healing response
✔️ Well-tolerated with a low complication rate
This treatment may also be effective in cases of failed prior surgery.
*Individual results may vary.
Interested in finding out more about Tenex and if this procedure could help you?
Give our office a call 631-689-6698 ext 2204.
F.A.Q
Tenex may be an effective option for patients with chronic tendon pain that has not improved with rest, physical therapy, injections, or other conservative treatments. The procedure is designed to remove damaged tendon tissue that contributes to ongoing pain and inflammation while preserving healthy tissue. A thorough evaluation, including imaging, will determine if Tenex is appropriate for your specific condition.
The Tenex procedure is performed using local anesthesia, which helps minimize discomfort during treatment. Most patients report feeling pressure or mild sensations rather than pain during the procedure. Some soreness or tenderness at the treatment site is common afterward, but this is typically short-lived and manageable with simple post-procedure care.
Recovery times vary depending on the tendon treated and the severity of the condition. Most patients experience minimal downtime and are able to return to light daily activities within a few days. Gradual improvement in pain and function often occurs over several weeks, with continued healing and symptom relief over the course of a few months.
Many patients do not require prescription pain medication following Tenex. Over-the-counter pain relievers may be recommended for short-term discomfort. Your physician will provide individualized post-procedure instructions based on your condition and overall treatment plan.
No. Tenex is a well-established, FDA-cleared procedure that has been used for many years to treat chronic tendon conditions. It is supported by clinical studies and is widely performed by orthopedic specialists and sports medicine physicians as a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery.
