Tendons

Tendons are flexible, cord-like connective tissues that connect muscles to bones. They allow you to move your limbs by transferring muscle-generated force to the skeleton. Tendons also absorb the impact of your activities and protect muscles from injury.

Tendons are relatively passive, inelastic structures that can resist high forces. They are firmly connected to muscle fibers at one end and to components of the bone at the other.

Your body contains thousands of tendons, including the Achilles tendon.

Tendons can be strengthened with eccentric, isometric, and plyometric training. For example, box jumps, depth drops, and plyo push-ups are plyometric exercises.

Tendons can heal naturally with extended rest. The repair process can take several weeks. Other nonsurgical treatments for tendon injuries include:

• Using a brace
• Physical therapy
• RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation)
• Anti-inflammatory drugs