Evidence brief
Tendon Healing and Repair Biology
Intrinsic healing from tendon cells
Extrinsic healing from surrounding tissues
Inflammatory, proliferative, remodeling phases
Scar tissue weaker than native tendon
Motion affects healing quality
Understanding tendon healing biology guides surgical technique and postoperative rehabilitation. Early controlled motion improves healing quality.
Know the phases: inflammatory (0-7 days), proliferative (7-21 days), remodeling (3 weeks to 1 year). Intrinsic vs extrinsic healing. Tendinopathy: failed healing response, not inflammation. Early motion prevents adhesions, improves strength. Balance repair strength vs motion.
Sharma P, Maffulli N. Tendon injury and tendinopathy: healing and repair. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2005;87(1):187-202.
Level IV
Case series or case reports