Effects of training, immobilization and remobilization on tendons

Abstract

Since a tendon is a living tissue, it is not a surprise that tendon shows the capacity to adapt its structure and mechanical properties to the functional demands of the entire muscle‐tendon unit. However, compared with muscle, the experimental knowledge of the effects of strength or endurance‐type training on tendon tissue is scarce and clinical human experiments are completely lacking (1). Research should, however, be able to improve the true understanding of the biomechanical, functional, morphological and biochemical changes that occur in tendons due to training and physical activity, since understanding of the basic physiology of a tissue is the key to understanding its pathological processes (1,2). Compared with muscle tissue, the metabolic turnover of tendon tissue is many times slower due to poorer vascularity and circulation (1, 3). The adaptive responses of tendons to training are therefore also slower than those in muscles, but they may finally be considerable if the time frame is long enough (3, 4).

How can one platelet injection after tendon injury lead to a stronger tendon after 4 weeks?: Interplay between early regeneration and mechanical stimulation

“…This has been pointed out before in several studies (Enwemeka 1992, Maffulli and King 1992, Almekinders et al 1995, Kannus et al 1997, Iwuagwu and McGrouther 1998, Zeichen et al 2000. However, the use of Botox for unloading of the healing tendon appears to be a new and practical model.…”

Eccentric training for shoulder abductors improves pain, function and isokinetic performance in subjects with shoulder impingement syndrome: a case series

“…Eccentric exercises have also been advocated as efficient in the treatment of several tendon disorders because this type of exercise accelerates tenocytes metabolism and may speed repair 18,50 . Therefore, tendons become stronger as tenoblast activity increases and an appropriate collagen reaction accelerates 18 .…”

Tendinopatia patelar

“…Isso não significa que o indivíduo deve parar toda e qualquer atividade física, e muito menos imobilizar a articulação do joelho. A imobilização causa atrofia do tendão, caracterizada por fibras de colágeno mais finas e desorientadas (43) . Uma vez que não há clara recomendação na literatura quanto à duração e intensidade do repouso, este deve ser bem discutido entre os médicos, fisioterapeutas, atletas e treinadores para que realmente esse tratamento seja efetivo, para não sobrecarregar o tendão patelar e também para que não cause hipotrofia muscular.…”