Targetted Pain Relief Procedure or TAME Procedure – Targeted Arterial Embolisation for Chronic Tendon and Soft Tissue Pain

A non-surgical solution for pain relief and healing

At IR Wellington, we offer the TAME procedure (Targeted Arterial Minimally Invasive Embolisation), a cutting-edge, non-surgical treatment designed to relieve pain and inflammation in chronic tendon and soft tissue conditions. This breakthrough technique can help people suffering from long-term pain in areas such as the shoulder (rotator cuff tendinopathy)Achilles tendontennis elbow, and plantar fasciitis.

What is the TAME Procedure?

The TAME procedure targets areas of chronic inflammation and abnormal blood flow that are often at the root of persistent tendon and soft tissue pain. Using advanced imaging, a small catheter is inserted into the bloodstream (usually via the wrist or groin) and guided to the tiny arteries supplying the affected area. Tiny particles are then delivered to block these abnormal vessels, helping to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Conditions we treat with TAME

  • Shoulder pain from rotator cuff tendinopathy
  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
  • Plantar fasciitis

These conditions often don’t respond well to rest, physiotherapy, or even corticosteroid injections—TAME offers a minimally invasive alternative that can reduce pain and help restore function.

Why choose TAME?

  • Non-surgical and minimally invasive
  • No stitches or general anaesthetic needed
  • Same-day or next-day discharge
  • Can offer lasting pain relief
  • Helps patients return to activity more comfortably

Is it right for me?

TAME is typically recommended for people with chronic soft tissue pain that hasn’t responded to standard treatments. It may be a valuable option before considering more invasive surgical procedures.

What to expect

  • The procedure usually takes 1–2 hours
  • Performed under local anaesthesia with sedation
  • Minimal downtime – most people return to normal activities quickly
  • Improvements in pain and function often seen within weeks to months

Safe. Effective. Leading edge.

TAME is performed by our expert interventional radiologist, specially trained in using imaging to deliver highly targeted treatment with precision and care. At IR Wellington, we’re proud to offer this advanced therapy in a welcoming, patient-focused environment.