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Updated: Apr 12, 2026
Author Spotlight: Integrating Mechanical and Biological Analysis in Tendinopathy Research
Published on: March 1, 2024
Preventive interventions for tendinopathy: A systematic review
Janne A Peters1, Johannes Zwerver2, Ronald L Diercks2
1Center for Sports Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands; Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands.
Preventive interventions for tendinopathy show limited effectiveness. While balance training and shock-absorbing insoles may help prevent patellar and Achilles tendinopathy, stretching exercises lack evidence and may increase injury risk. More research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Orthopedics
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Tendinopathy, characterized by pain and dysfunction, is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder in sports.
- Its increasing prevalence necessitates investigation into effective preventive strategies.
- Current understanding of tendinopathy risk factors remains limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review existing preventive interventions for tendinopathy.
- To focus on major affected regions including the ankle, knee, hip, groin, shoulder, and elbow.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed and Embase databases.
- Studies meeting inclusion criteria were assessed for methodological quality.
- Data from included studies were summarized.
Main Results:
- Ten articles detailing diverse preventive interventions were included.
- Interventions were categorized into stretching/exercise, shoe adaptations, and others.
- Three studies demonstrated significant beneficial outcomes, with moderate to high methodological quality.
Conclusions:
- Limited evidence suggests long-term balance training may prevent patellar and Achilles tendinopathy.
- Shock-absorbing insoles show potential preventive effects for Achilles tendinopathy.
- Hormone replacement therapy may reduce structural Achilles tendon changes in post-menopausal women; stretching exercises lack efficacy and may increase injury risk.
