Ultrasound imaging evaluation of structural and textural features in asymptomatic achilles tendons in pre-professional dancers: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate performance descriptors, sociodemographics variables and tendon echogenicity of asymptomatic Achilles tendons and to compare the echotexture from different classification subgroups.

Design: A prospective, randomized cross-sectional study was carried out.

Setting: laboratory of university.

Participants: Forty-two Achilles tendons (AT) were recruited from pre-professional dancers. Based on the echogenicity pattern, the sample was divided into two groups (n = 21, Heterogeneous group; n = 21, Homogeneous group).

Main outocome measures: Ultrasound images and ImageJ measurements were performed to evaluate thickness (AT-TH), echointensity (EI) and echovariation (EV), in addition to a balance and endurance test were measured as performance parameter.

Results: EI (p = 0.001) and EV (p = 0.001) reported statistically significant differences between groups. AT-TH, endurance test, balance test, years of dance, training hours per week and average pointe hours per week did not showed differences between groups. A multivariate prediction model between groups and the echotexture variables (EI (R² = 0.569; EV (R² = 0.341)) were determined.

Conclusion: Asymptomatic AT of heterogeneous group showed a lower EI and a higher EV compared to homogeneous group. Tendon echogenicity did not interact with performance variables.

Keywords: Achilles tendon; Dancing; Diagnosis; Ultrasonography.