Our Summary

This research paper delves into the common issue of tendon injuries among athletes. The exact cause of these injuries is not fully understood, but one theory suggests that the cells within the tendon, which manage the surrounding tissue, may fail to adapt to changes in the tendon’s balance, leading to injury. This imbalance could be due to various stressors like physical strain, heat, and lack of blood supply. However, the researchers believe that something is missing from this theory.

One factor that hasn’t been considered till now is the pressure inside the tendon. The researchers believe that this pressure could be linked to many injuries, so they reviewed existing scientific literature on the topic. They also looked at how tissue pressure plays a role in disorders that are structurally similar to tendons.

By combining these insights with known changes that occur in injured tendons, the researchers created a model that shows how an increase in pressure within a tendon might lead to injury and pain. They also suggest some treatments that could potentially lower this internal tendon pressure and speed up the healing process.

The researchers encourage further studies to test their theories and spark discussion about the role of internal tendon pressure in tendon injuries.

FAQs

  1. What is the current theory about the cause of tendon injuries in athletes?
  2. How could the internal pressure of a tendon potentially lead to injury and pain?
  3. What kind of treatments are being suggested to lower internal tendon pressure and speed up healing?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about tendon repair is to follow a structured rehabilitation program that includes exercises to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve flexibility. This can help prevent future injuries and promote healing of the tendon. Additionally, it is important to listen to your body and not push through pain during activities, as this can exacerbate the injury. Finally, maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated can also aid in the repair process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended tendon repair are those who have suffered a tendon injury due to physical strain, overuse, or trauma. Athletes are a common demographic who may require tendon repair due to the repetitive and intense nature of their activities. Additionally, individuals who have chronic conditions such as tendinopathy or tendonitis may also benefit from tendon repair surgery to alleviate pain and improve function. Ultimately, patients who experience persistent pain, limited range of motion, and difficulty performing daily activities due to a tendon injury may be candidates for tendon repair.

Timeline

Before tendon repair:

  • Patient experiences pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected area
  • They may seek medical advice and undergo imaging tests to diagnose the extent of the injury
  • Treatment may involve rest, physical therapy, or medications to manage pain and inflammation
  • If conservative measures are not effective, surgery may be recommended for tendon repair

After tendon repair:

  • Patient undergoes surgery to repair the damaged tendon
  • They will have a recovery period that includes physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion in the affected area
  • Follow-up appointments with the surgeon and physical therapist are scheduled to monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed
  • Over time, the patient should experience improved function and reduced pain in the repaired tendon area.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Questions a patient should ask their doctor about tendon repair may include:

  1. What specific type of tendon injury do I have, and how severe is it?
  2. What are the potential causes of my tendon injury?
  3. How does internal tendon pressure play a role in tendon injuries, and could this be a factor in my case?
  4. What are the treatment options available for my tendon injury, and how do they address internal tendon pressure?
  5. What is the expected recovery time for my tendon injury, and what can I do to speed up the healing process?
  6. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take to prevent future tendon injuries?
  7. Are there any potential complications or risks associated with tendon repair surgery or other treatment options?
  8. How will the success of the tendon repair be measured, and what are the expected outcomes?
  9. Are there any alternative or complementary therapies that may be beneficial in conjunction with traditional treatment methods?
  10. How can I best support my tendon healing process through exercise, nutrition, and overall health maintenance?

Reference

Authors: Pringels L, Cook JL, Witvrouw E, Burssens A, Vanden Bossche L, Wezenbeek E. Journal: Br J Sports Med. 2023 Aug;57(16):1042-1048. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2022-106066. Epub 2022 Nov 2. PMID: 36323498