Functional Ankle Range of Motion but Not Peak Achilles Tendon Force Diminished With Heel-Rise and Jumping Tasks After Achilles Tendon Repair.
Abstract
Deficits in sporting performance after Achilles tendon repair may be due to changes in musculotendinous unit structure, including tendon elongation and muscle fascicle shortening. The purpose was to discern whether Achilles tendon rupture reduces triceps surae muscle force generation, alters functional ankle range of motion, or both during sports-related tasks. We hypothesized that individuals who have undergone Achilles tendon repair lack the functional ankle range of motion needed to complete sports-related tasks. Descriptive laboratory study. The study included individuals 1 to 3 years after treatment of Achilles tendon rupture with open repair. Participants (n = 11) completed a heel-rise task and 3 jumping tasks. Lower extremity biomechanics were analyzed using motion capture. Between-limb differences were tested using paired t test. Pelvic vertical displacement was reduced during the heel-rise (mean difference, -12.8%; P = .026) but not during the jumping task (P > .1). In the concentric phase of all tasks, peak ankle plantarflexion angle (range of mean difference, -19.2% to -48.8%; P < .05) and total plantar flexor work (defined as the area under the plantar flexor torque - ankle angle curve) (range of mean difference, -9...Continue Reading
References
Achilles tendon elongation after rupture repair: a randomized comparison of 2 postoperative regimens
Increased unilateral tendon stiffness and its effect on gait 2-6 years after Achilles tendon rupture
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