Measuring Achilles tendon mechanical properties: a reliable, noninvasive method

J Strength Cond Res. 2012 Aug;26(8):2017-20. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0b013e31825bb47f.

Abstract

The purpose of this technical report is to describe a cost-effective and highly reliable methodology to measure mechanical and material properties of the Achilles tendon. Subjects are positioned on an isokinetic dynamometer time synchronized to a diagnostic ultrasound device. A tendon fascicle distal to the soleus is visualized during a ramped isometric maximal plantarflexion contraction. Excursion of the fascicle and tendon torque output yield a force-elongation curve in which mechanical characteristics and material properties are derived. Excellent intrasession and intersession reliabilities were observed for both the dynamometer (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] 0.99, 0.95) and excursion (ICC 0.99, 0.93) measures. Practical applications for this methodology include examination of training regimes for optimal tendon adaptation and rehabilitation in the presence of tendinopathy.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Achilles Tendon / diagnostic imaging*
  • Achilles Tendon / physiology*
  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Isometric Contraction / physiology
  • Male
  • Muscle Strength Dynamometer*
  • Tendinopathy / diagnostic imaging
  • Tendinopathy / physiopathology
  • Torque
  • Ultrasonography / methods
  • Young Adult