Tendon Cell Biology: Effect of Mechanical Loading by Stańczak et al. (2024), provides a comprehensive review of how tendons respond at the cellular and molecular level to mechanical stress. Access the full text here
This review bridges the gap between tendon biology and practical training application, making it a valuable resource for clinicians and coaches aiming to improve tendon health, rehabilitation, and performance outcomes.
What You Need to Know
- Mechanotransduction drives tendon adaptation: Tendon cells sense mechanical load via integrins and activate signaling pathways to remodel the extracellular matrix.
- Stress shielding disrupts adaptation: When injured or weaker regions of the tendon are unloaded, they remain disorganized, impairing collagen alignment and long-term tendon integrity.
- Training and rehab implications: Long-duration isometrics, eccentric exercises, and progressive plyometrics can optimize collagen synthesis, improve stiffness, and restore function when used in a sequenced and appropriate manner.
YouTube Walkthrough
Check out the 2 part series on this study and its practical applications on YouTube.
Part 1
Part 2
