Mechanical Forces as Determinants of Tissue Regeneration: A Mechanobiological Perspective in Orthopedic and Reconstructive Recovery

Authors:
Open Access
Publisher website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Mechanobiology has emerged as a fundamental discipline in understanding tissue regeneration in orthopedic and reconstructive contexts. This review analyzes how mechanical forces—such as tension, compression, shear stress, and controlled loading—regulate biological processes involved in healing across bone, tendon, cartilage, and skin. A structured narrative approach was used to synthesize current evidence from experimental and clinical studies, focusing on mechanotransduction pathways and their clinical implications. The findings demonstrate that tissue regeneration is optimized within a specific mechanical range, where controlled loading enhances cellular activity, extracellular matrix organization, and functional recovery. Conversely, both insufficient mechanical stimulation and excessive loading negatively impact healing outcomes. Additionally, mechanobiological responses are tissue-specific and vary according to the stage of healing, highlighting the importance of progressive and individualized rehabilitation strategies. In reconstructive surgery, mechanical tension plays a critical role in scar formation, where excessive stress is associated with pathological scarring. Overall, this review supports the integration of mechanobiological principles into clinical practice, emphasizing their relevance in improving outcomes in traumatology, orthopedics, and plastic surgery, particularly in diverse healthcare settings.