Improving treatment for painful Achilles tendon conditions
Official title: Research Core
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11015876 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at ways to make physical therapy better for people with Achilles tendinopathy, a painful tendon condition, by understanding how tendon cells react to different pressures, so we can help them heal faster and possibly avoid surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $459,804 |
| NIH project number | 5P50AR080581-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11015876 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic pain due to Achilles tendinopathy who have not found relief through standard physical therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute Achilles injuries or those who have already undergone surgical treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on Achilles tendinopathy, a chronic and painful condition affecting the tendon. It aims to enhance the effectiveness of physical therapy, which is the primary non-surgical treatment for this condition. By studying how tendon cells respond to mechanical loads throughout the disease progression, the research seeks to identify mechanisms that can improve healing and reduce the need for surgery. The project will utilize patient-relevant tendon samples and advanced assays to ensure that findings can be effectively translated into clinical practice.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better treatment options for patients suffering from Achilles tendinopathy, potentially reducing pain and the need for surgical interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in improving tendon healing through mechanotransduction approaches, indicating that this line of inquiry has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baxter, Josh — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Baxter, Josh
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.