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The Plantaris Muscle Tendon and Its Relationship with the Achilles Tendinopathy

Ł Olewnik1, G Wysiadecki1, M Podgórski2

  • 1Department of Normal and Clinical Anatomy, Medical University of Lodz, Poland.

Biomed Research International
|June 30, 2018
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Anatomical variations of the plantaris muscle (PM) tendon were observed in 89.2% of cases. Some PM tendons insert near the Achilles tendon, potentially increasing the risk of Achilles tendinopathy.

Area of Science:

  • Anatomy
  • Orthopedics
  • Sports Medicine

Background:

  • The plantaris muscle (PM) is considered vestigial in humans but plays a role in surgical procedures.
  • Emerging evidence suggests the PM may contribute to Achilles tendinopathy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the morphological variations of the plantaris muscle (PM).
  • To assess the potential for anatomical conflict between the PM tendon and the Achilles tendon.

Main Methods:

  • Conducted classical anatomical dissection on 130 lower limbs.
  • Evaluated the morphology and insertion patterns of the plantaris tendon in relation to the calcaneal tendon.

Main Results:

  • The plantaris muscle (PM) was present in 89.2% of dissected limbs.
  • A novel insertion of the PM tendon into the tarsal canal flexor retinaculum was identified.
  • In 22.4% of cases, the PM tendon blended with the Achilles tendon (Type II), suggesting a risk factor for Achilles tendinopathy.

Conclusions:

  • Anatomical variations in plantaris muscle (PM) tendon morphology can lead to conflict with the Achilles and tibialis posterior tendons.
  • These variations may increase the susceptibility to tendinopathy in these structures.

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