Scientific breakthrough unlocks potential novel tendon therapy

Scientists are investigating a new therapy for the treatment of tendon injuries such as tennis elbow and Achilles tendinitis after gaining new insight into the condition. Tendon injuries (tendinopathies) are common, accounting for 30-50% of all sporting injuries, and are usually caused by repetitive strain or major trauma. While many people recover after a period of rest, a significant number of people do not because the structure of the tendon itself has permanently weakened. Healthy tendons, connecting muscles to bones, are primarily composed of type-1 collagen, a very strong material. When injured the body responds by producing the inferior type-3 collagen to quickly repair the damage. This type of collagen is not as strong as type-1 and is more prone to damage. Normally, over time, type 3 is replaced by the stronger type-1.