Our Summary

This research paper discusses the effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are types of molecules, on our tendons. Normally, ROS help maintain balance in our cells. However, if there are too many ROS, or our bodies can’t effectively manage them, it can lead to oxidative stress, which can harm our cells and tissues.

Our tendons, which are made up largely of a substance called collagen, are particularly affected by ROS. In normal amounts, ROS help regulate processes like inflammation, cell growth, and the remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) - the non-cellular component present within all tissues and organs that provides necessary support to the cells. But when there’s too much ROS, it can lead to tendon issues and poor healing.

The paper also explores how ROS are produced in tendons, including through mitochondria - the “powerhouses” of our cells - and how they play a role in how our tissues adapt to physical stress and injury. It also looks at how conditions like diabetes can affect this process.

Importantly, the paper discusses the role of calcium signaling - how calcium ions help transmit information within cells - and how this is affected by physical stress. The researchers suggest that too much physical stress might overactivate calcium channels, leading to too much calcium inside cells, which can increase ROS production and oxidative stress.

While there’s currently only indirect evidence linking calcium channel overactivity, calcium regulation inside cells, and ROS production under high-stress conditions, the paper emphasizes the need for more research in this area. By understanding both the positive and negative effects of ROS in response to physical stress, the researchers hope to pave the way for future work, including developing treatments that target ROS and calcium signaling to improve tendon recovery and resilience.

FAQs

  1. What role do reactive oxygen species (ROS) play in tendon repair and injury?
  2. How does calcium signaling relate to the production of ROS in tendons under mechanical load?
  3. What are some potential therapeutic strategies for enhancing tendon recovery and resilience based on the role of ROS and calcium signaling?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about tendon repair is to maintain a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, as they can help reduce oxidative stress and promote healing. Additionally, following a proper rehabilitation program and avoiding overuse or excessive strain on the injured tendon can also aid in the repair process. It is important to listen to your body and not push through pain, as this can further damage the tendon and delay healing. Lastly, staying hydrated and getting enough rest are also important factors in supporting tendon repair.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended tendon repair include those with acute tendon injuries, chronic tendon overuse injuries (such as tendinopathy), and tendon tears. These injuries can occur in various tendons throughout the body, such as the Achilles tendon, rotator cuff tendons, and patellar tendon. Patients who have failed conservative treatments such as physical therapy and rest may be candidates for tendon repair surgery to restore function and alleviate pain. Additionally, patients with systemic conditions such as diabetes, which can impair tendon healing and increase the risk of complications, may also be recommended tendon repair to prevent further damage and improve outcomes.

Timeline

Before tendon repair:

  1. Injury or overuse leading to tendon damage
  2. Inflammation and pain in the affected area
  3. Degeneration of tendon tissue
  4. Impaired healing and potential development of tendinopathy

After tendon repair:

  1. Surgical or non-surgical intervention to repair the damaged tendon
  2. Rehabilitation and physical therapy to restore strength and function
  3. Gradual return to normal activities and exercises
  4. Continued monitoring for potential complications or re-injury
  5. Full recovery and restoration of tendon function

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the specific type of tendon injury I have, and how does tendon repair work in this case?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with tendon repair surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time after tendon repair surgery, and what is the rehabilitation process like?
  4. Are there any alternative treatment options to tendon repair surgery that I should consider?
  5. How can I optimize my diet and lifestyle to support tendon healing and prevent future injuries?
  6. Are there any specific exercises or physical therapy techniques that can help with tendon repair and rehabilitation?
  7. How can I prevent re-injury to the tendon in the future after it has been repaired?
  8. Are there any specific factors, such as age or underlying health conditions, that may affect the success of tendon repair surgery for me?
  9. What is the long-term outlook for my tendon health after undergoing repair surgery?
  10. Are there any specific red flags or warning signs that I should watch out for during the recovery process that may indicate complications with the tendon repair?

Reference

Authors: Kračun D, Görlach A, Snedeker JG, Buschmann J. Journal: Redox Biol. 2025 Apr;81:103568. doi: 10.1016/j.redox.2025.103568. Epub 2025 Feb 25. PMID: 40023978