The common cause is overuse from too much activity or training, and then not enough time to allow the tissues to heal or recover.

The tissues heal slowly and are prone to infection when there is decreased circulation.

"We remove the source of infection and create an environment in which the tissue can heal," he said.

The mechanical properties must match the application and remain sufficiently strong until the surrounding tissue has healed.

Yet as many paralyzed accident victims know too well, not all tissues heal.

Today, physicians can only help tissues to heal themselves.

The incision is not closed (stitched), as the damaged tissues must heal from the inside toward the skin over a period of time.

But before the tissues have healed, the pain somehow takes on a life of its own.

It is important that patients respect their doctor's advice and limit their physical activity so the tissues can heal faster.