Lower limb biomechanical factors associated with Achilles tendinopathy in runners: a systematic review

Review written by Tom Goom info

Key Points

  1. This systematic review sought to examine the relationship between biomechanical risk factors and the development of Achilles tendinopathy (AT) in runners.
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BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE

Achilles tendinopathy (AT) is thought to affect around half of distance runners during their running careers (1). It can have long term consequences and prevent people from participating in sport. Despite this it remains unclear which factors cause AT in runners.

It is thought that various biomechanical factors can predispose a runner to AT. This systematic review examined the relationship between these biomechanical risk factors (such as kinetics, kinematics, muscle activity, plantar pressure, and temporospatial parameter variables during running) and AT in runners. It is hoped that the findings of this research could be used in treatment and prevention of Achilles pain.

Achilles tendinopathy is thought to affect around half of distance runners during their running careers.
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Increased hip adduction, pelvic drop and pronation are movements that frequently occur together and can increase Achilles load.

METHODS

Electronic databases (SCOPUS, Science Direct and PUBMED) were searched in March 2021 using appropriate key terms. The reference lists of identified papers were then also reviewed to find additional relevant studies.

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