The Tendon Research Foundation was formed when it became clear the research of Dr Richard Schwarz was unlikely to be completed in his lifetime. Dr. Schwarz’s vision was that tendon rupture could be repaired more completely, more naturally, and with far fewer re-injuries than the current standard of care.
The crucial element lacking in all current therapies is the trigger for coordinated collagen production and alignment.
His research discovered that tendons CAN heal and the tendon cell is activatable. This fundamental tool is a critical foundation missing in most, if not all, the current tendon damage, healing, and repair models available for basic research and development of new therapeutic approaches.
None of the current interventions have proved effective in shortening recovery time, restoring full function, and preventing or limiting re-tearing of the tendon. This includes Platelet rich plasma, Autologous tendon cell injection, Growth factor injections, Tendon Progenitor (Stem) Cell injection, and Surgical repairs with no insert, surrogate tissue insert, or cadaver tendon replacement.
The Foundation's Approach
Tendon Research Foundation is seeking partnerships and collaborations with organizations leading cutting edge tendon research. We are committed to
- Building the community of tendon researchers,
- Encouraging collaboration, and
- Engaging trainees.
We also are exploring opportunities to address the need for the tendon cell atlas as identified in the Orthopaedic Research Society Tendon Section’s paper, Tendon Omics.