In research conducted in rats, investigators have shown for the first time the effect of rotator cuff tendon overuse, or tendinopathy, on surrounding tissues.
Such overuse is among the major causes of shoulder pain and discomfort in athletes, laborers, older adults, and those who use a repetitive overhead motion in daily activities. Untreated tendinopathy can lead to full or partial rotator cuff tendon rupture, requiring orthopaedic surgery and a potentially long and painful recovery.
Over a 10-week period, both degeneration of the shoulder tendon and osteoarthritis-like changes to neighboring cartilage were observed.
The study may help clinicians determine the optimal type and timing of treatment for tendon overuse injuries to reduce further damage.
