Recovery Strategies After Tendon Injuries in Athletes: A Review of Current Evidence

Tendon injuries are a prevalent and challenging concern in athletic populations, often leading to prolonged downtime, impaired performance, and risk of reinjury. A diverse array of mechanisms can contribute to the development of tendinopathy or tendon rupture. This review discusses the current evidence on recovery strategies post-tendon injury, focusing on the mechanisms of tendon healing, rehabilitation protocols, and return-to-sport criteria. Emphasis is placed on the biological and mechanical aspects of tendon regeneration, alongside clinical applications such as eccentric loading, regenerative protocols, and neuromuscular re-education. Furthermore, the role of emerging modalities, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP), shockwave therapy, and nutritional supplementation, is evaluated. The review also highlights gaps in the literature and suggests directions for future research to optimise recovery and performance outcomes in athletes.