A novel application of the principles of linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) to the fatigue behavior of tendon tissue.
BACKGROUND
Experiments on the fatigue of tendons have shown that cyclic loading induces failure at stresses lower than the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of the tendons. The number of cycles to failure (Nf) has been shown to be dependent upon the magnitude of the applied cyclic stress.


METHODS
Utilizing data collected by Schechtman (1995), we demonstrate that the principles of Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics (LEFM) can be used to predict the fatigue behavior of tendons under cyclic loading for maximum stress levels that are higher than 10% of the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of the tendon (the experimental results at 10% UTS did not fit with our equations).


CONCLUSIONS
LEFM and other FM approaches may prove to be very valuable in advancing our understanding of damage accumulation in soft connective tissues.
Adeeb
Samer M
SM
McCaig Center for Joint Injury and Arthritis Research, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.
Zec
Michelle L
ML
Thornton
Gail M
GM
Frank
Cyril B
CB
Shrive
Nigel G
NG
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003198:Computer Simulation; D004548:Elasticity; D006244:Hardness; D006801:Humans; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D016014:Linear Models; D008875:Middle Aged; D008954:Models, Biological; D013314:Stress, Mechanical; D013708:Tendon Injuries / Q000503:physiopathology*; D013710:Tendons / Q000503:physiopathology*; D013718:Tensile Strength