Tendon Histology
According to the United States Jockey Club, injuries to the superficial digital flexor tendon, which is analogous to the human Achilles tendon, will sideline around 75% of thoroughbreds bred for racing. The superficial digital flexor tendon of a horse and the human Achilles tendon are similar in function, matrix composition, and nature of injuries. In contrast, the horse has maximized the potential of this tendon, resulting in efficiency of around 100% in full gallop. However, competitive sport can result in over use, as the tendon begins to lose elasticity with age. Over strain injuries are preceded by progressive degeneration of the tendon matrix by consistent load bearing (Smith et al. 2005). Over-stretching of the tendon results in a rupture of fibers, accompanied by heat, swelling, and brief pain. Because pain is not a major problem, treatment is directed at restoring function. Tendon tissue naturally heals well, but soon after injury fibroplasia forms, resulting in scar-like tissue that is strong but stiff, having impaired elasticity compared to the original tendon. This remodels over time becoming stronger and stiffer, reducing the tendon’s
efficiency as a spring, compromising performance, and increasing re-injury risk (Richardson et al. 2008). Tendon injury requires pro-longed rehabilitation with high risk of re-injury even after adequate rehab because the abundant extracellular matrix becomes damaged, a high level of degradative enzymes increase matrix damage during repair process, and low cellularity and vascularity, which must be maintained for new tendon to function correctly. Among the horses who suffer these injuries, around 20% will make a full-recovery (Barrett). When the superficial digital flexor tendon is injured, a lesion can form, serving as a natural enclosure for cell implantation. Therefore, stem cell therapy can be used to aid in regeneration of functional tissue.
-To view a video that demonstrates the strain on a tendon during jumping, visit
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccOP3rny8zE
efficiency as a spring, compromising performance, and increasing re-injury risk (Richardson et al. 2008). Tendon injury requires pro-longed rehabilitation with high risk of re-injury even after adequate rehab because the abundant extracellular matrix becomes damaged, a high level of degradative enzymes increase matrix damage during repair process, and low cellularity and vascularity, which must be maintained for new tendon to function correctly. Among the horses who suffer these injuries, around 20% will make a full-recovery (Barrett). When the superficial digital flexor tendon is injured, a lesion can form, serving as a natural enclosure for cell implantation. Therefore, stem cell therapy can be used to aid in regeneration of functional tissue.
-To view a video that demonstrates the strain on a tendon during jumping, visit
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccOP3rny8zE