The GhenTendon project investigates the role of intratendinous pressure in the development of tendinopathies. (initially in particular Achilles tendinopathy later spreading to other tendons)

Achilles tendinopaty is a significant problem for patients , characterized by presistent pain, reduced sports and ADL performance and reduces quality of life. Although there are several treatment options, their effectiveness often remains limited. For example, 20% of patients with Achilles tendinopathy still experience complaints after 10 years, despite conservative treatment.

The unsatisfactory results indicate an incomplete understanding of the underlying pathophysiology. Although, the tendon cell respconse model is widely accepted, it remains unclear which factors disrupt tenocyte homeostasis and impede recovery. This could explain why current therapies fail. 

Intratendinous pressure has not been investigated for so far.  Unlikely other musculoskeletal tissues where pressure has been studies extensively, the role of intratendinous pressure in both healthy and pathological tendons was largely unknown until recently. Over the past four years our research group has gained important new insights. It remains that intratendinous pressure can play a role in both the deverlopment and maintenance of Achilles tendinopathy. However knowledge gaps remain. For example, further in vivo resarch is needed to determine whether there is a correlation between  increased intratendinous pressure and pain.  In addition, it should be invatigated whether therapies are able to reduce intratendinous pressure, and whether  this leads to a reduction of pain and functional disability. The ultimate goal is to develop a non-invasive measuring device in collaboration with the Department fo  Engineering Sciences and based on photoacoustic imaging. This device could measure and monitor intra-tendinous pressure over time with many possible applications for example athletes or in occupational medicine. This can play an important role in society in the prevention of tendon injuries due to repetitive strain caused by increased intra-tendinous  pressure.