About this episode
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tendon Research 02:59 The Evolution of Tendon Rehabilitation 06:07 Understanding Tendon Mechanics and Training Approaches 09:00 The Role of Load in Tendon Health 12:03 Aging and Tendon Structure 14:51 The Impact of Immobility on Tendon Health 18:09 Stages of Tendon Development 21:08 Tendon Ruptures and Age Factors 24:00 The Science of Tendon Stiffness 26:46 Cellular Dynamics in Tendon Health 32:26 Understanding Tendon Responses: Achilles vs. Patellar 36:11 The Role of Cross-Links in Tendon Stiffness 40:59 Exercise and Its Impact on Tendon Health 42:25 Dietary Influences on Tendon Integrity 44:17 Metabolic Syndrome and Tendon Health 46:38 Accumulation of Advanced Glycation End Products 49:31 Tendon Size and Vascularization in Tendinopathy 54:51 Inflammation in Tendon Pain: A Complex Relationship 01:00:07 Circadian Rhythms and Tendon Health 01:03:27 Future Research Directions in Tendon Studies Takeaways Christian Coupe is a physical therapist and researcher. He has worked extensively with elite athletes, particularly in racket sports. Tendon issues like jumpers knee and Achilles tendinopathy are common in athletes. Eccentric training was a breakthrough in tendon rehabilitation. Heavy slow resistance training may be more effective than eccentric training. Tendons require regular loading to maintain health and prevent degradation. Aging begins around the age of 17, affecting tendon structure and function. Immobility can lead to rapid deterioration of tendon health. Tendon stiffness is crucial for performance and injury prevention. There is potential for improving tendon health even in older individuals. The Achilles tendon may require different loading than the patellar tendon. Cross-links in tendons can affect stiffness and brittleness. Exercise is crucial for maintaining tendon health and properties. Dietary choices can influence tendon integrity and health. Metabolic syndrome is linked to tendon issues and injuries. Advanced glycation end products accumulate in low turnover tissues like tendons. Tendon size can increase due to vascularization in tendinopathy. Inflammation may be present in early stages of tendon pain. Circadian rhythms could play a role in tendon recovery processes. Future research should focus on the metabolic aspects of tendon health. Christian's research (Researchgate): https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Christian-Couppe Christian's profile: https://researchprofiles.ku.dk/en/persons/christian-couppé Christian on Twitter: https://x.com/ccouppe