Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services for a visibly deformed limb, loss of feeling or circulation, or serious injury.
Sudden calf swelling with chest pain, faintness, or shortness of breath also needs emergency care because it may indicate a blood clot rather than tendinopathy.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek urgent medical care if you have:
A sudden snap or pop followed by weakness or loss of movement
Rapid swelling or bruising around a tendon
Inability to bear weight, push off the foot, lift the arm, or use the limb
A hot, red, very swollen area with fever or feeling unwell
Severe pain after a fall, collision, or other significant injury
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine assessment if tendon pain lasts more than a few weeks, keeps returning, disturbs sleep, or limits work, walking, exercise, or everyday tasks.
Earlier assessment is also reasonable if you have diabetes, an inflammatory condition, previous tendon rupture, or tendon pain after starting a medicine associated with tendon injury.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Tendinopathy. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.