An overview of structure, mechanical properties, and treatment for age-related tendinopathy

J Nutr Health Aging. 2014 Apr;18(4):441-8. doi: 10.1007/s12603-014-0026-2.

Abstract

Tendons transfer tensile loads from muscle to bone, which enable joint motions and stabilize joints. Tendons sustain large mechanical loads in vivo and as a result, tendons were frequently injured. Aging has been confirmed as a predisposing factor of tendinopathy and bad recovery quality following tendon repair. Current treatment methods are generally not effective and involve either symptomatic relief with non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs and physical therapy or surgery when conservative treatments failed. The limitation in treatment options is due to our incomplete knowledge of age-related tendinopathy. Studies over the past decades have uncovered a number of important mechanical and cellular changes of aging tendon. However, the basis of aging as a major risk factor for tendon injury and impaired tendon healing remained poorly understood. The objectives of this review are to provide an overview of the current knowledge about the aging-associated changes of structure, mechanical properties and treatment in tendon and highlight causes and therapies for age-related tendinopathy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aging / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Stem Cells / cytology
  • Tendinopathy / pathology
  • Tendinopathy / physiopathology*
  • Tendinopathy / surgery
  • Tendinopathy / therapy*
  • Tendon Injuries
  • Tendons / pathology*
  • Tendons / physiopathology*