189. A Deep Dive Into Tendon Rehab w/ Marc Surdyka
Feb 25, 2025
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Marc Surdyka, an expert in tendon rehabilitation, joins Chris Hughen to explore revolutionary approaches to managing tendon pain. They discuss the evolution of tendon pain terminology, shifting from 'tendonitis' to 'tendinopathy.' The conversation highlights modern loading protocols and the importance of individualized rehabilitation strategies. Surdyka emphasizes pain monitoring, tailored exercises, and the need for baseline testing, offering clinicians insightful strategies for effective tendon management and optimal recovery.
The terminology surrounding tendon pain has evolved from tendonitis to tendinopathy, reflecting a better understanding of underlying issues non-specific to inflammation.
Recent research supports the necessity of progressive loading in tendon rehabilitation, allowing pain during treatment while focusing on functional recovery.
Individualizing loading strategies based on each patient's unique situation is crucial for effective tendon rehabilitation, blending recovery with normal activity and fitness.
Deep dives
Understanding Tendons
Tendons are connective tissues that transmit force from muscles to bones, playing a crucial role in movement and injury protection. They possess unique viscoelastic properties, allowing them to store and release energy, which enhances performance. Key parameters, such as tendon strain and stiffness, define their mechanical behavior under loads. Understanding these concepts is vital for developing effective rehabilitation strategies for tendon-related injuries.
Evolution of Tendon Terminology
Initially, tendon pain was often labeled tendonitis, suggesting an inflammatory condition that required rest and anti-inflammatory treatments. However, research over the years, including significant contributions from studies in the 1970s and 2000s, has shifted this perspective, revealing that inflammation may not be the primary issue. Terms like tendinosis were introduced, but they presented their complications, as degenerative changes are also common in asymptomatic individuals. The term tendinopathy has emerged as a more inclusive descriptor, capturing various forms of tendon pain and function impairment without implying a specific pathological process.
Role of Inflammation
Recent investigations indicate that while inflammatory markers can exist in cases of tendinopathy, they do not dictate the management approach. Historically, inflammation was thought to be the focal point of tendon pain, leading to misconceived treatment strategies centered on ice and rest. Evidence suggests that inflammatory responses can also be a natural adaptation to mechanical loading, implying that inflammation does not necessarily equate to pathology. Thus, treatment strategies should focus more on restoring function through progressive loading rather than solely addressing inflammatory markers.
Management Approaches
Current rehabilitation paradigms for tendon pain emphasize progressive loading, where pain during rehabilitation is acceptable and can even lead to positive outcomes. The pain monitoring model suggests understanding tolerable pain levels and adjusting rehab activities accordingly, allowing clinicians to guide patients through various loading protocols safely. Different modes of loading, including isometric, eccentric, and heavy slow resistance movements, can be incorporated as part of a comprehensive management strategy, targeting specific tendon adaptations. This approach fosters gradual improvements in symptoms and functions while preparing the tendon for the demands of daily activities and sports.
Best Practices for Rehabilitation
Practical implementations in tendon rehabilitation revolve around individualizing loading strategies based on patient needs and the specific tendon involved. Simplifying the process, clinicians should focus on where the patient currently stands, desired goals, and establishing a sustainable loading regimen that minimizes flare-ups. It is vital to blend rehabilitation with normal activity, allowing participants to maintain fitness while incorporating tendon-specific exercises. Ultimately, ongoing evaluation and adaptation based on patient feedback and responses can yield effective rehabilitation outcomes, ensuring both health and performance are optimized.
Chris Hughen sat down with Marc Surdyka to discuss all things tendon rehab. We dive into the evolution of tendon pain terminology, the role of inflammation, loading protocols, clinical applications, and much more.