Stages of Tendon Healing

Written By Dr. Carol Gillis DVM, PhD, DACVSMR

Injured tendon goes through several stages during the healing process to return to functional strength.

 

Stage 1

0-4 Weeks

 

  • Inflammation

  • 3-fold increase in blood supply

After Week 1

  • Creation of hyaluronic acid framework crossing gaps in torn fibers

Stage 2

4-16 Weeks

 

  • Type III collagen forms in the gaps in injured fibers, providing substance and limited strength.

Stage 3

16-32 Weeks

 

  • Type III collagen is replaced by Type I (normal tendon) collagen.

  • Fibers align along stress planes

  • Finally, cross-linking occurs

Tendon returns to full strength.

Dr. Carol Gillis DVM, PhD, DACVSMR

A graduate of UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Carol Gillis developed a sport horse practice and became one of the first equine veterinarians to perform ultrasound examinations on the musculoskeletal system of horses. Dr. Gillis returned for an equine surgery residency at UC Davis. Following completion of the residency, she obtained a Ph.D. in equine tendon and ligament pathophysiology. Concurrently she established the equine ultrasound service at UC Davis, pioneering ultrasound of the musculoskeletal system at the University, and creating courses and wet labs to train veterinary students, residents, and veterinarians how to perform and interpret ultrasonographic examinations.

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Prevention of Soft Tissue Injuries