Tendons are the body’s connective cords, and just like high-tension cables, they link muscles and bones, enabling movement. Although tough and fibrous, these flexible bands can tear under sudden or prolonged repetitive stress – and they often do. In the US, reports estimate more than 32 million cases of tendon injuries per year, with around 1.4 million leading to surgery because the pain and mobility issues are so severe. In this article, we discuss tendon injuries and explore the latest options for tendon repairs in the US.
Understanding Tendon Injuries
Tendon injuries often result from overuse or sudden strain. Activities like weightlifting, running, playing pickleball, and even typing involve repetitive motions which stress tendons. Over time, they cause micro-tears, i.e., minor tears that can grow into a more severe tear or injury. Accidents or sudden movements, like slipping, sliding, and falling, put rapid, immense pressure on your tendons. This unexpected stress can tbe debilitating.
Treatments for such injuries depend on the severity of the tear – micro, partial tear, fully torn. Minor micro-tears usually respond well to at-home care (rest, ice, and compression). However, there’s no guarantee they will heal 100%. Tears might linger, leading to persistent pain and weakness. For more severe cases, surgery is often the best route. It’s direct and gets you back to normal activities faster.
Leading Causes of Tendon Injuries
While there are several ways people can injure their tendons, certain activities and conditions have been shown to increase the risk, including:
- Deep Cuts that Sever a Tendon: Known as tendon laceration, these injuries are most commonly seen in the hands and feet. They require immediate surgical attention to prevent permanent damage.
- Injury from Sports: These can affect many tendons in the knees, ankles, and shoulders. Research shows that sports are a primary contributor, with contact sports responsible for nearly 50% of tendon injuries, particularly:
- Tear in the Achilles tendon (Achilles tendinosis)
- Damage to the shoulder tendons (rotator cuff injuries)
- Injury to the tendons in the forearm (tennis elbow)
- Tears in the bicep tendon (bicep tendinitis)
- Prolonged Repetitive Motion: Activities that require repetitive movements cause wear and tear over time. Without adequate rest, tendons are prone to inflammation and injury.
- Improper Technique or Poor Posture: Using incorrect form during physical activity or chronic poor posture, such as slouching, places extra stress on both tendons and muscles. This can lead to injury over time.
- Age-Related Degeneration: As people age, the blood supply to the tendons gradually decreases, thus making them more susceptible to degeneration and tears. Hence, tendon injuries are more common in individuals over 40.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: This condition can lead to tears in the tendons of the hands, wrists, and feet. Clinically referred to as rheumatoid tendonitis, it is believed to affect over 1.3 million Americans.
- Genetic Factors: Some individuals have weaker tendons due to a genetic predisposition. This makes them more susceptible to tendon injuries even when engaging in normal levels of activity.
Tendon Repair Surgery in the US
Tendon repair surgery is often very simple. It involves suturing the torn ends of the tendon and anchoring them back to the bone they tore from – much like mending and securing broken cables. While this may sound complex, newer surgical techniques have made the procedure much less invasive.
Orthopedic surgeons now make small incisions and use precise instruments to perform the repair. Not only does this approach reduce postoperative pain and aid in recovery, but it also results in less tissue damage.
Moreover, tendon repairs in the US are lightyears ahead with advancements in suture anchor technology. Biotech companies such as Anika offer cutting-edge products and solutions, including:
X-Twist
A strong, versatile solution that enables both knotted and knotless constructs designed for a variety procedures, including rotator cuff and Achilles. Learn more about its benefits here.
Draw Tight
Designed for efficiency and sparing bone, these modern anchors are ideal for both large and small joint soft tissue repairs, including rotator cuff and shoulder instability. Learn more about it here.
ActiFlip SB Cinch Loop
Created for reliability and ease of use, this solution is well suited for proximal biceps tenodesis and FDL transfers in the foot. Discover why it’s different here.
Tendon Implants
New regenerative technology, such as the Integrity™ Implant, enhances a tendon repair by providing additional strength and a more natural healing environment.
Integrity™ is a partially-absorbable implant made from Hyaffâ, solid esterified hyaluronic acid, and non-absorbable PET. By basing the product on hyaluronic acid (HA) – a natural substance in our bodies, Integrity™ doesn’t just reinforce the repair, it also creates an environment in the tendon conducive to healing. The benefits are quite impressive:
- Strong and flexible design that also aids in regenerative healing
- Enhanced biocompatibility as it does not have any foreign animal-derived materials
- Better tendon regeneration by improving the body’s cellular response to help support the natural healing process
- Designed to offer a way for many to return to an active lifestyle
Tendon Repair: Your Path to Recovery
In the initial weeks after surgery, rest is crucial. You must avoid straining or exerting yourself as it can disturb the healing process. With your surgeon’s approval, you can typically start physical therapy two to three weeks after surgery…
Early on, you start with passive range of motion movements, gradually increasing to more challenging exercises. The goal isn’t just to restore mobility, it is also to regain strength so you can return to doing all the activities you love.
Tendon injuries are no small matter. They cause a great deal of pain and often require surgery. But there’s good news: medical advancements have made tendon repairs in the US better than ever. That said, understanding your surgery and setting realistic expectations is still essential. To set yourself up for success, research your options and consult with your surgeon – you are your best advocate!
