The effect of fatigue on peak Achilles tendon force in Irish dancing-specific landing tasks

Achilles tendinopathy is prevalent among Irish dancers, believed to be due to aesthetic technical requirements and high-impact landing tasks. However, the peak Achilles tendon force during Irish dancing-specific landing tasks has not been quantified. Furthermore, the influence of fatigue is unclear. This study aimed to quantify the peak Achilles tendon force during three common Irish dancing landing tasks and investigate the effects of fatigue on this force. Twelve nationally competitive Irish dancers completed the landing tasks prior to and following a fatigue protocol. A Vicon motion analysis system and AMTI force plates were used to calculate sagittal plane ankle joint kinematics during landing to estimate peak Achilles tendon force. Three independent measures (Rating-of-Fatigue scale, Flight time: Contraction during a counter movement jump and jump height during the landing trials) were used to evaluate participant fatigue between conditions. Results revealed a significant difference in peak Achilles tendon force between the three landing tasks, however, no significant difference was observed between pre- and post-fatigue. Further research is required to investigate the effects of the landing technique used in Irish Dancing on peak Achilles tendon force with the aim to reduce peak Achilles tendon force and the risk of developing Achilles tendinopathy.