Caring for Your Tendons: The Silent Heroes of Movement

Tendons are the unsung heroes of our bodies, connecting muscles to bones and enabling movement. However, they often go unnoticed until something goes wrong. Unlike muscles, tendons don't heal as quickly or easily. When they get injured, it can be hard to notice at first. But over time, these injuries can lead to big problems. Everyday activities, like typing or jumping, can cause tendon trouble. These actions might not hurt right away, but they can cause wear and tear over time. This is known as an overuse injury. It can be silent for a long time, but the damage is still happening. Once the damage is done, it can be hard to reverse. If you think you have a tendon problem, it's important to get treatment right away. Doctors might suggest pain relievers, ice, and rest. Physical therapy can also help. Researchers are studying how exercise can help tendons heal. They found that movement can trigger repair, but timing is key. Waiting at least two weeks before exercising seems to be beneficial. Animal studies have shown some interesting findings. Zebrafish, for example, can regenerate tendon tissue throughout their lives. But humans are different. When people's tendons tear, they usually scar instead of regenerate. Researchers are working to understand why and how to fix it. At the University of Michigan, scientists are studying how chronic injuries change tendon fibers. They've developed a way to grow 3D structures from patients' tendon cells. This allows them to test different conditions and see how tendons respond. They're also testing a restorative gel that could be injected into injured tendons. While researchers work to find better treatments, it's important to take care of your tendons. The National Institutes of Health recommends warming up before exercise, strengthening muscles around joints, and taking breaks during repetitive activities. It's also important to avoid sitting for too long and to practice good posture. If an activity causes pain, it's best to stop and rest.