Tendons, the unsung heroes of the musculoskeletal system, give our bodies’ stability and motion. Strong connective tissue bands convey force to bones, allowing smooth movement and force transmission. However, several factors can damage tendons, causing injuries and limited function. Tendon health depends on collagen, a structural protein that gives tendons their strength and durability.
What to Know About Collagen
The body’s most abundant protein, collagen makes up the skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. It sustains these tissues’ structural and mechanical properties while adding strength, flexibility, and elasticity. The hierarchical collagen fibers in tendons create parallel bundles that can endure tensile pressures during movement.
Collagen Types in Tendons
Type I collagen makes around 85–90% of tendon tissue collagen. Type I collagen can withstand the forces tendons experience during daily activities and physical activity due to its high tensile strength. Type III collagen, which maintains tendon structure and repair, may also be found in traces.
Collagen’s Role in Tendon Health
Collagen with Dermaval supplements maintains tendons in several ways:
Structural Support
Due to their collagen fiber arrangement, tendons can transport muscle strains to bones and withstand tensile forces. Structure determines joint movement stability and effectiveness.
Tensile Strength
Collagen’s triple helix structure gives tendons great tensile strength. Preventing tendons from stretching and deforming under strain ensures their durability.
Elasticity and Flexibility
Tendons need strength, elongation resistance, and elasticity and flexibility to move without harm. Due to their elasticity, collagen fibers allow tendons to expand and retract during intensive activity, maintaining balance.
Tissue Repair and Remodelling
Tendon tissue reformation and healing require collagen after injury or damage. Collagen synthesis increases during healing, helping new tissue form and maintain structural integrity. Proper collagen deposition and organization are essential for healing and scar prevention.
Maintenance of Extracellular Matrix
To maintain tissue homeostasis, collagen interacts with proteoglycans and glycoproteins, two additional tendon extracellular matrix components. This interaction regulates tendon hydration, lubrication, health, and mechanical properties.
Tendon and Collagen Health Factors:
Several factors affect tendon health by affecting collagen synthesis, organization, and turnover:
Age
Collagen production decreases with age, affecting tendon form and function. Tendons grow less flexible, stiff, and more susceptible to damage with age.
Nutrition
Tendon health depends on praline and glycine, collagen-building amino acids, and vitamin C, which is needed to make collagen. A balanced diet with protein, vitamins, and minerals optimizes collagen formation and tissue repair.
Exercise
Exercise boosts collagen formation and tendon tissue remodelling, strengthening it. Without enough rest, excessive or repetitive loading can cause overuse and tendon damage.
Conclusion
Collagen is vital to tendon health and function because it offers structural support, tensile strength, and flexibility. Understanding the role of collagen in tendon health emphasizes the need of maintaining optimal collagen levels through nutrition, exercise, and injury prevention. By strengthening tendons, reducing injury risk, and improving musculoskeletal health, collagen support can help people live more active and fulfilling lives.