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Strain mapping in the Achilles tendon - A systematic review
Stijn Bogaerts1, Hannelore Desmet2, Pieter Slagmolen3
1Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University Hospitals Leuven, Belgium.
Journal of Biomechanics
|April 27, 2016
Summary
Achilles tendon strain research is reviewed, finding ultrasound is common but methods vary. Future studies should focus on local strain distribution for better understanding of tendinopathy.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Medicine
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Achilles tendinopathy is a common overuse injury in athletes.
- Understanding tendon mechanics, particularly strain, is crucial for treatment.
- Therapeutic mechanical loading is a primary treatment approach.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review methods used to investigate Achilles tendon strain.
- To synthesize data on Achilles tendon strain mapping.
- To identify research gaps in Achilles tendinopathy strain analysis.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review following PRISMA guidelines.
- Qualitative assessment of 47 relevant articles.
- Analysis of studies investigating Achilles tendon strain in various contexts.
Main Results:
- Ultrasound is the most frequent imaging modality for strain measurement.
- Significant methodological heterogeneity exists across studies (e.g., measurement location).
- Most studies focused on global strain; local intratendinous strain is under-researched.
Conclusions:
- Current research on Achilles tendon strain is methodologically diverse.
- The role of local strain distribution in tendinopathy requires further investigation.
- Advanced imaging techniques are needed to explore intratendinous strain patterns.
