Degenerative disorders of tendons present an enormous clinical challenge. They are extremely common, prone to recur and existing medical and surgical treatments are generally unsatisfactory.

Eccentric, but not concentric, exercises have been shown to be effective in managing tendinopathy of the Achilles tendon and of the mid-portion of the Achilles tendon in particular.

There has been much speculation on why eccentric exercises are effective. This talk will highlight the theories and evidence behind why eccentric exercises are effective. An understanding of why eccentric exercises are effective should inform best clinical practice on rehabilitation of tendinopathy. This talk will also discuss limitations of eccentric exercises and highlight areas where future research is needed.