Change in Achilles Tendon Length after Walking on Treadmill with Gradient

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Musculoskeletal System
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Ankle joint contracture and limited dorsiflexion can cause pain during weight-bearing activities like walking.
• Stiffness often leads to compensatory weight distribution, concentrating force on the forefoot.
• Improving ankle dorsiflexion is crucial for normal gait mechanics and reducing pain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of walking on an incline (gradient) versus level walking on Achilles tendon length.
• To determine if gastrocnemius muscle contraction during ankle dorsiflexion on an incline increases Achilles tendon length.
• To evaluate the impact of gradient walking on ankle dorsiflexion range of motion.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-three male participants underwent ultrasound imaging to measure Achilles tendon length.
• Participants stood on an inclined table adjusted for dorsiflexion angle.
• Treadmill walking was performed for 10 minutes under two conditions: 10° incline (gradient) and level (no gradient).
• Paired t-tests were used for statistical comparison.

Main Results:

• Walking on a 10° incline significantly increased ankle dorsiflexion range of motion.
• Achilles tendon length was significantly increased in the gradient condition after the intervention.
• These findings indicate a direct correlation between gradient walking and increased Achilles tendon length.

Conclusions:

• Gradient walking promotes Achilles tendon extension in the ankle dorsiflexion position.
• Gastrocnemius muscle contraction during incline walking leads to Achilles tendon lengthening.
• The study suggests potential clinical applications for gradient walking interventions to improve ankle mobility and reduce contracture.