What condition is characterized by inflammation and tenderness of a tendon due to repeated microtrauma?

The condition characterized by inflammation and tenderness of a tendon due to repeated microtrauma is tendonitis. This occurs when the tendon, which connects muscle to bone, undergoes stress that exceeds its capacity to heal, leading to inflammation. Common activities that cause tendonitis include repetitive motions in sports or occupations, resulting in pain, swelling, and reduced mobility in the affected area.

Unlike bursitis, which involves inflammation of the bursae (small fluid-filled sacs that cushion bony prominences), or cervical spondylosis, which refers to age-related degeneration of the cervical spine, tendonitis specifically targets the tendons. Shin splints, on the other hand, are not a tendon condition but rather refer to pain along the shin bone due to stress on the muscles and bones in that area, often resulting from running or other high-impact activities. Thus, tendonitis is correctly identified as the condition delineating inflammation and tenderness due to repetitive microtrauma to tendons.