Plasticity of the human tendon to short- and long-term mechanical loading

Exerc Sport Sci Rev. 2009 Apr;37(2):66-72. doi: 10.1097/JES.0b013e31819c2e1d.

Abstract

This review examines the effects of short- and long-term static and cyclic mechanical loading on the mechanical properties of tendons. Tendons do not alter their mechanical properties after static and cycling loading that occurs during fatiguing contractions. Adaptations can occur after the application of long-term loading, but the strain magnitude must exceed a given threshold.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Physiological*
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Elasticity
  • Fatigue*
  • Humans
  • Mechanical Phenomena
  • Physical Phenomena
  • Stress, Mechanical*
  • Tendons / diagnostic imaging
  • Tendons / physiology*
  • Tensile Strength
  • Time Factors
  • Ultrasonography
  • Weight-Bearing