What is mechanotransduction?
The term mechanotransduction refers to the different ways in which mechanosensitive cells respond to different movements and loads, generated in the tissue, producing biochemical and physical responses in the organism.
How does it happen?
The movements and loads performed during a treatment, such as in a joint, stimulate the collagen fibers as well as the extracellular matrix. The stimulation triggers physical and chemical processes that bring about a change in the treated tissue.
Why is it interesting in Physiotherapy?
In Physiotherapy it is interesting because the mechanical stimuli result in a change in the architectural form of the tissues, varying the cellular behavior and physiological adaptation. They can result in enhanced protein synthesis, modulated inflammatory response or improved tissue repair and remodeling, producing these biochemical changes as a result of mechanical stimuli.
How is mechanotransduction applied?
The application of mechanotransduction will depend on the tissue to be treated, as well as where it is located. Taking into account the above, it will be necessary to evaluate:
- The different degrees and directions of movement.
- The frequencies and duration of the mechanical load.
- The torsion, tension, shear, compression, stretching, bending and friction that the tissue we are treating allows us to perform.