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The Achilles' heel of tendons

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have discovered the weakest link in tendons, a crucial connection between bones and muscles. The discovery focuses on collagen fibrils, which are five times stronger than tendons but may hold the key to increasing flexibility and healing damage.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateSep 21, 2010

Battling a biceps injury

A new study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that surgical treatment soon after a biceps injury leads to faster and more complete recoveries. The study revealed that surgery offers significant improvements in elbow flexion and supination, with upper extremity endurance also enhanced.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMar 3, 2010

One-third of NFL players with Achilles tendon injuries sidelined

Research in the Foot & Ankle Specialist journal found that Achilles tendon ruptures can be career-altering injuries for NFL players. Nearly 36% of players who sustained this injury never returned to play in the NFL, with those who did return experiencing a significant reduction in power ratings.

SourceSAGE·JournalFoot & Ankle Specialist·DateJan 11, 2010

Tendon, ligament repair in horses focus of research

Researchers at Virginia Tech's Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center are studying the best ways to treat lameness in horses through tendon and ligament repair. Dr. Jennifer Barrett is investigating regenerative medicine techniques, including stem cell therapy, to regenerate damaged tendons and cartilage.

Platelet-rich plasma: Does it work?

A new study suggests that platelet-rich plasma (PRP) may catalyze the body's repair mechanisms at areas of injury, improving healing and shortening recovery time. However, more research is needed to determine its clinical effectiveness for chronic tendon conditions, such as tennis elbow and Achilles tendonitis.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateOct 1, 2009

Chronic ankle pain may be more than just a sprain

Chronic ankle pain is a common issue that may not resolve on its own after an initial injury. Tendon injuries to the peroneal tendons are now recognized as a possible cause of chronic pain. Early diagnosis and treatment can alleviate symptoms, and imaging techniques like MRI or ultrasound can help identify the condition.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateMay 1, 2009

Galloping and breathing at high speed

A team of researchers has developed a pacemaker to stimulate the muscles that control breathing in horses. This technology may also benefit humans with laryngeal paralysis or those who undergo laryngeal transplants. The study's findings provide insights into the coordination of movement and breathing in equines.

Surgical technique helps to reanimate paralyzed faces

Researchers report successful outcomes for a surgical technique called temporalis tendon transfer, which helps reanimate facial paralysis with high patient satisfaction rates. The procedure resulted in improved form and function, with movement in mouth muscles identified in all patients after treatment.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Facial Plastic Surgery·DateJul 16, 2007

Cigarette smoking impedes tendon-to-bone healing

Researchers found that nicotine delays tendon-to-bone healing, reducing cellular proliferation and collagen production. This can lead to weaker tissue and increased vulnerability to re-injury after surgery. The study used a rat shoulder model to investigate the effects of cigarette smoking on rotator cuff repair.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateOct 18, 2006

Using stem cells to repair torn tendons

Researchers have successfully induced neotendon formation in mesenchymal stem cells using the Smad8 signaling pathway. This breakthrough could lead to new cell-based therapeutic approaches for musculoskeletal injuries.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 3, 2006

Lengthening achilles tendon reduces recurrence of diabetic foot ulcers

A study published in Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that lengthening the Achilles tendon can reduce the recurrence of diabetic foot ulcers by up to 75% after seven months. The procedure, which involves stretching the tendon and immobilizing the foot for six weeks, also requires caution to prevent increased stress on the heel.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJul 31, 2003

Muscle-Bound Cells

Researchers at Weizmann Institute of Science find that muscle and tendon cells communicate through a molecular dialogue to complete their differentiation process. They isolated a gene that produces a growth factor inducing tendon cell differentiation, potentially helping understand human embryonic muscle development.