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Contreras-Hernandez I, Arvanitidis M, Falla D, Negro F, Martinez-Valdes E. Achilles tendon morpho-mechanical parameters are related to triceps surae motor unit firing properties. J Neurophysiol 2024; 132:1198-1210. [PMID: 39230338 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00391.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent studies combining high-density surface electromyography (HD-sEMG) and ultrasound imaging have yielded valuable insights into the relationship between motor unit activity and muscle contractile properties. However, limited evidence exists on the relationship between motor unit firing properties and tendon morpho-mechanical properties. This study aimed to determine the relationship between triceps surae motor unit firing properties and the morpho-mechanical properties of the Achilles tendon (AT). Motor unit firing properties [i.e. mean discharge rate (DR) and coefficient of variation of the interspike interval (COVisi)] and motor unit firing-torque relationships [cross-correlation between cumulative spike train (CST) and torque, and the delay between motor unit firing and torque production (neuromechanical delay)] of the medial gastrocnemius (MG), lateral gastrocnemius (LG), and soleus (SO) muscles were assessed using HD-sEMG during isometric plantarflexion contractions at 10% and 40% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). The morpho-mechanical properties of the AT (i.e. length, thickness, cross-sectional area, and resting stiffness) were determined using B-mode ultrasonography and shear-wave elastography. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that at 10% MVC, the DR of the triceps surae muscles explained 41.7% of the variance in resting AT stiffness. In addition, at 10% MVC, COVisi SO predicted 30.4% of the variance in AT length. At 40% MVC, COVisi MG and COVisi SO explained 48.7% of the variance in AT length. Motor unit-torque relationships were not associated with any morpho-mechanical parameter. This study provides novel evidence of a contraction intensity-dependent relationship between motor unit firing parameters of the triceps surae muscle and the morpho-mechanical properties of the AT. NEW & NOTEWORTHY By employing HD-sEMG, conventional B-mode ultrasonography, and shear-wave elastography, we showed that the resting stiffness of the Achilles tendon is related to mean discharge rate of triceps surae motor units during low-force isometric plantarflexion contractions, providing relevant information about the complex interaction between rate coding and the muscle-tendon unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignacio Contreras-Hernandez
- Centre of Precision Rehabilitation for Spinal Pain (CPR Spine), School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Michail Arvanitidis
- Centre of Precision Rehabilitation for Spinal Pain (CPR Spine), School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Deborah Falla
- Centre of Precision Rehabilitation for Spinal Pain (CPR Spine), School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco Negro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Eduardo Martinez-Valdes
- Centre of Precision Rehabilitation for Spinal Pain (CPR Spine), School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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Ryskalin L, Morucci G, Soldani P, Gesi M. Do the fasciae of the soleus have a role in plantar fasciitis? Clin Anat 2024; 37:413-424. [PMID: 37539773 DOI: 10.1002/ca.24102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Plantar fasciitis is a chronic, self-limiting, and painful disabling condition affecting the inferomedial aspect of the heel, usually extending toward the metatarsophalangeal joints. There is compelling evidence for a strong correlation between Achilles tendon (AT) loading and plantar aponeurosis (PA) tension. In line with this, tightness of the AT is found in almost 80% of patients affected by plantar fasciitis. A positive correlation has also been reported between gastrocnemius-soleus tightness and heel pain severity in this condition. Despite its high prevalence, the exact etiology and pathological mechanisms underlying plantar heel pain remain unclear. Therefore, the aim of the present paper is to discuss the anatomical and biomechanical substrates of plantar fasciitis with special emphasis on the emerging, though largely neglected, fascial system. In particular, the relationship between the fascia, triceps surae muscle, AT, and PA will be analyzed. We then proceed to discuss how structural and biomechanical alterations of the muscle-tendon-fascia complex due to muscle overuse or injury can create the conditions for the onset of PA pathology. A deeper knowledge of the possible molecular mechanisms underpinning changes in the mechanical properties of the fascial system in response to altered loading and/or muscle contraction could help healthcare professionals and clinicians refine nonoperative treatment strategies and rehabilitation protocols for plantar fasciitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larisa Ryskalin
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Center for Rehabilitative Medicine "Sport and Anatomy", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gabriele Morucci
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Center for Rehabilitative Medicine "Sport and Anatomy", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Soldani
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Center for Rehabilitative Medicine "Sport and Anatomy", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Gesi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Center for Rehabilitative Medicine "Sport and Anatomy", University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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Arampatzis A, Kharazi M, Theodorakis C, Mersmann F, Bohm S. Biarticular mechanisms of the gastrocnemii muscles enhance ankle mechanical power and work during running. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2023; 10:230007. [PMID: 37650058 PMCID: PMC10465202 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.230007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
The objective of the study was to explore how biarticular mechanisms of the gastrocnemii muscles may provide an important energy source for power and work at the ankle joint with increasing running speed. Achilles tendon force was quantified as a proxy of the triceps surae muscle force and the contribution of the monoarticular soleus and the biarticular gastrocnemii to the mechanical power and work performed at the ankle joint was investigated in three running speeds (transition 2.0 m s-1, slow 2.5 m s-1, fast 3.5 m s-1). Although the contribution of the soleus was higher, biarticular mechanisms of the gastrocnemii accounted for a relevant part of the performed mechanical power and work at the ankle joint. There was an ankle-to-knee joint energy transfer in the first part of the stance phase and a knee-to-ankle joint energy transfer during push-off via the gastrocnemii muscles, which made up 16% of the total positive ankle joint work. The rate of knee-to-ankle joint energy transfer increased with speed, indicating a speed-related participation of biarticular mechanisms in running. This energy transfer via the gastrocnemii seems to occur with negligible energy absorption/production from the quadriceps vasti contractile elements and is rather an energy exchange between elastic structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adamantios Arampatzis
- Department of Training and Movement Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Philippstr. 13, Haus 11, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Mohamadreza Kharazi
- Department of Training and Movement Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Philippstr. 13, Haus 11, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Christos Theodorakis
- Department of Training and Movement Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Philippstr. 13, Haus 11, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Falk Mersmann
- Department of Training and Movement Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Philippstr. 13, Haus 11, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Sebastian Bohm
- Department of Training and Movement Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Philippstr. 13, Haus 11, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
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Kharazi M, Theodorakis C, Mersmann F, Bohm S, Arampatzis A. Contractile Work of the Soleus and Biarticular Mechanisms of the Gastrocnemii Muscles Increase the Net Ankle Mechanical Work at High Walking Speeds. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:872. [PMID: 37372156 DOI: 10.3390/biology12060872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Increasing walking speed is accompanied by an increase of the mechanical power and work performed at the ankle joint despite the decrease of the intrinsic muscle force potential of the soleus (Sol) and gastrocnemius medialis (GM) muscles. In the present study, we measured Achilles tendon (AT) elongation and, based on an experimentally determined AT force-elongation relationship, quantified AT force at four walking speeds (slow 0.7 m.s-1, preferred 1.4 m.s-1, transition 2.0 m.s-1, and maximum 2.6 ± 0.3 m.s-1). Further, we investigated the mechanical power and work of the AT force at the ankle joint and, separately, the mechanical power and work of the monoarticular Sol at the ankle joint and the biarticular gastrocnemii at the ankle and knee joints. We found a 21% decrease in maximum AT force at the two higher speeds compared to the preferred; however, the net work of the AT force at the ankle joint (ATF work) increased as a function of walking speed. An earlier plantar flexion accompanied by an increased electromyographic activity of the Sol and GM muscles and a knee-to-ankle joint energy transfer via the biarticular gastrocnemii increased the net ATF mechanical work by 1.7 and 2.4-fold in the transition and maximum walking speed, respectively. Our findings provide first-time evidence for a different mechanistic participation of the monoarticular Sol muscle (i.e., increased contractile net work carried out) and the biarticular gastrocnemii (i.e., increased contribution of biarticular mechanisms) to the speed-related increase of net ATF work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamadreza Kharazi
- Department of Training and Movement Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Christos Theodorakis
- Department of Training and Movement Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Falk Mersmann
- Department of Training and Movement Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Sebastian Bohm
- Department of Training and Movement Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Adamantios Arampatzis
- Department of Training and Movement Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, 10115 Berlin, Germany
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Finni T, de Brito Fontana H, Maas H. Force transmission and interactions between synergistic muscles. J Biomech 2023; 152:111575. [PMID: 37120913 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2023.111575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The classical view of muscles as independent motors has been challenged over the past decades. An alternative view has emerged in which muscles are not isolated but embedded in a three-dimensional connective tissue network that links them to adjacent muscles and other non-muscular structures in the body. Animal studies showing that the forces measured at the distal and proximal ends of a muscle are not equal have provided undisputable evidence that these connective tissue linkages are strong enough to serve as an extra pathway for muscular force transmission. In this historical review, we first introduce the terminology and anatomy related to these pathways of muscle force transmission and provide a definition for the term epimuscular force transmission. We then focus on important experimental evidence indicating mechanical interactions between synergistic muscles that may affect force transmission and/or influence the muscles' force generating capacity. We illustrate that there may exist different expressions of the highly relevant force-length properties depending on whether the force is measured at the proximal or distal tendon and depending on the dynamics of surrounding structures. Changes in length, activation level or disruption of the connective tissue of neighboring muscles, can affect how muscles interact and produce force on the skeleton. While most direct evidence is from animal experiments, studies on humans also suggest functional implications of the connective tissues surrounding muscles. These implications may explain how distant segments, which are not part of the same joint system, affect force generation at a given joint, and, in clinical conditions, explain observations from tendon transfer surgeries, where a muscle transferred to act as an antagonist continues to produce agonistic moments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taija Finni
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Neuromuscular Research Center, University of Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Heiliane de Brito Fontana
- Department of Morphological Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Huub Maas
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Khair RM, Stenroth L, Cronin NJ, Reito A, Paloneva J, Finni T. In vivo localised gastrocnemius subtendon representation within the healthy and ruptured human Achilles tendon. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2022; 133:11-19. [PMID: 35546126 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00084.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The Achilles tendon (AT) is composed of three distinct in-series elastic subtendons, arising from different muscles in the triceps surae. Independent activation of any of these muscles is thought to induce sliding between the adjacent AT subtendons. We aimed to investigate displacement patterns during voluntary contraction (VOL) and selective transcutaneous stimulation of medial (MGstim) and lateral (LGstim) gastrocnemius between ruptured and healthy tendons, and to examine the representative areas of AT subtendons. Twenty-eight patients with unilateral AT rupture performed bilateral VOL at 30% of the maximal isometric un-injured plantarflexion torque. AT displacement was analysed from sagittal B-mode ultrasonography images during VOL, MGstim and LGstim. Three-way ANOVA revealed a significant two-way interaction of contraction type*location on the tendon displacement (F(10-815)=3.72, p<0.001). The subsequent two-way analysis revealed a significant contraction type*location interaction for tendon displacement (F(10-410)=3.79, p<0.001) in the un-injured limb only, where LGstim displacement pattern was significantly different from MGstim (p=0.008) and VOL (p=0.005). When comparing contraction types between limbs the there were no difference in the displacement patterns, but displacement amplitudes differed. There was no significant difference in the location of maximum or minimum displacement between limbs. The displacement pattern was not different in non-surgically treated compared to un-injured tendons one-year post rupture. Our results suggest that near the calcaneus, LG subtendon is located in the most anterior region adjacent to medial gastrocnemius. However, free tendon stiffness seems to be lower in the injured AT, leading to more displacement during electrically-induced contractions compared to the un-injured.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raad M Khair
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Neuromuscular Research Center, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Lauri Stenroth
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Neil J Cronin
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Neuromuscular Research Center, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland.,School of Sport and Exercise, University of Gloucestershire, United Kingdom
| | - Aleksi Reito
- Central Finland Health Care District, Finland and University of Eastern Finland, Finland
| | - Juha Paloneva
- Central Finland Health Care District, Finland and University of Eastern Finland, Finland
| | - Taija Finni
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Neuromuscular Research Center, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
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Ajimsha M, Shenoy PD, Surendran PJ, Jacob P, Bilal MJ. Evidence of in-vivo myofascial force transfer in humans; a systematic scoping review. J Bodyw Mov Ther 2022; 32:183-195. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2022.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Mazzo MR, Holobar A, Enoka RM. Association between effective neural drive to the triceps surae and fluctuations in plantar-flexion torque during submaximal isometric contractions. Exp Physiol 2022; 107:489-507. [PMID: 35218261 DOI: 10.1113/ep090228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
What is the central question of this study? What is the association between the fluctuations in various estimates of effective neural drive to the triceps surae muscles and fluctuations in net plantar-flexion torque during steady submaximal contractions? What is the main finding and its importance? The fluctuations in estimates of effective neural drive to the triceps surae were moderately correlated with fluctuations in net torque at light and moderate plantar-flexion torques. Significant variability was observed in the association between neural drive and torque across participants, trials, short epochs of individual contractions, and varying motor unit number. ABSTRACT: The influence of effective neural drive on low-frequency fluctuations in torque during steady contractions can be estimated from the cumulative spike train (CST) or first principal component (FPC) of smoothed motor unit discharge rates obtained with high-density electromyography. However, the association between these estimates of total neural drive to synergist muscles and the fluctuations in net torque has not been investigated. We exposed the variability and compared the correlations between estimates of effective neural drive to the triceps surae muscles and fluctuations in plantar-flexion torque during steady contractions at 10% and 35% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) torque. Both neural drive estimates were moderately correlated with torque (CST, 0.55 ± 0.14, FPC, 0.58 ± 0.16) and highly correlated with one another (0.81 ± 0.1) during the 30-s steady contractions. There was substantial variability in cross-correlation values across participants, trials, and the 1-s and 5-s epochs of single contractions. Moreover, epoch duration significantly influenced cross-correlation values. Motor unit number was weakly associated with cross-correlation strength at 35% MVC (marginal R2 0.09 - 0.11; all p < 2.2×10-5 ), but not at 10% MVC (all p > 0.37). Approximately one fifth of the variance in the coefficient of variation (CV) for torque was explained by CV for the CST estimate of neural drive (p = 6.6×10-13 , R2 = 0.21). Estimates of total neural drive to the synergistic triceps surae muscles obtained by pooling motor unit discharge times were moderately correlated with fluctuations in net plantar-flexion torque. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa R Mazzo
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO
| | - Aleš Holobar
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Roger M Enoka
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO
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Lehr NL, Clark WH, Lewek MD, Franz JR. The effects of triceps surae muscle stimulation on localized Achilles subtendon tissue displacements. J Exp Biol 2021; 224:271197. [PMID: 34350951 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.242135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The triceps surae muscle-tendon unit is composed of the lateral and medial gastrocnemius (MG) and soleus (SOL) muscles and three in-series elastic 'subtendons' that form the Achilles tendon. Comparative literature and our own in vivo evidence suggest that sliding between adjacent subtendons may facilitate independent muscle actuation. We aim to more clearly define the relationship between individual muscle activation and subtendon tissue displacements. Here, during fixed-end contractions, electrical muscle stimulation controlled the magnitude of force transmitted via individual triceps surae muscles while ultrasound imaging recorded resultant subtendon tissue displacements. We hypothesized that MG and SOL stimulation would elicit larger displacements in their associated subtendon. Ten young adults completed four experimental activations at three ankle angles (-20, 0 and 20 deg) with the knee flexed to approximately 20 deg: MG stimulation (STIMMG), SOL stimulation (STIMSOL), combined stimulation, and volitional contraction. At 20 deg plantarflexion, STIMSOL elicited 49% larger tendon non-uniformity (SOL-MG subtendon tissue displacement) than that of STIMMG (P=0.004). For STIMSOL, a one-way post hoc ANOVA revealed a significant main effect of ankle angle (P=0.009) on Achilles tendon non-uniformity. However, peak tendon non-uniformity decreased by an average of 61% from plantarflexion to dorsiflexion, likely due to an increase in passive tension. Our results suggest that localized tissue displacements within the Achilles tendon respond in anatomically consistent ways to differential patterns of triceps surae muscle activation, but these relations are highly susceptible to ankle angle. This in vivo evidence points to at least some mechanical independence in actuation between the human triceps surae muscle-subtendon units.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan L Lehr
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, UNC Chapel Hill & NC State University, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - William H Clark
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, UNC Chapel Hill & NC State University, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Michael D Lewek
- Division of Physical Therapy, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Jason R Franz
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, UNC Chapel Hill & NC State University, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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Mazzo MR, Weinman LE, Giustino V, Mclagan B, Maldonado J, Enoka RM. Changes in neural drive to calf muscles during steady submaximal contractions after repeated static stretches. J Physiol 2021; 599:4321-4336. [PMID: 34292610 DOI: 10.1113/jp281875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Repeated static-stretching interventions consistently increase the range of motion about a joint and decrease total joint stiffness, but findings on the changes in muscle and connective-tissue properties are mixed. The influence of these stretch-induced changes on muscle function at submaximal forces is unknown. To address this gap in knowledge, the changes in neural drive to the plantar flexor muscles after a static-stretch intervention were estimated. Neural drive to the plantar flexor muscles during a low-force contraction increased after repeated static stretches. These findings suggest that adjustments in motor unit activity are necessary at low forces to accommodate reductions in the force-generating and transmission capabilities of the muscle-tendon unit after repeated static stretches of the calf muscles. ABSTRACT Static stretching decreases stiffness about a joint, but its influence on muscle-tendon unit function and muscle activation is unclear. We investigated the influence of three static stretches on changes in neural drive to the plantar flexor muscles, both after a stretch intervention and after a set of maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs). Estimates of neural drive were obtained during submaximal isometric contractions by decomposing high-density electromyographic signals into the activity of individual motor units from medial gastrocnemius, lateral gastrocnemius and soleus. Motor units were matched across contractions and an estimate of neural drive to the plantar flexors was calculated by normalizing the cumulative spike train to the number of active motor units (normalized neural drive). Mean discharge rate increased after the stretch intervention during the 10% MVC task for all recorded motor units and those matched across conditions (all, P = 0.0046; matched only, P = 0.002), recruitment threshold decreased for motor units matched across contractions (P = 0.022), and discharge rate at recruitment was elevated (P = 0.004). Similarly, the estimate of normalized neural drive was significantly greater after the stretch intervention at 10% MVC torque (P = 0.029), but not at 35% MVC torque. The adjustments in motor unit activity required to complete the 10% MVC task after stretch may have been partially attenuated by a set of plantar flexor MVCs. The increase in neural drive required to produce low plantar-flexion torques after repeated static stretches of the calf muscles suggests stretch-induced changes in muscle and connective tissue properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa R Mazzo
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Logan E Weinman
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Valerio Giustino
- Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Unit, Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Bailey Mclagan
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - John Maldonado
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Roger M Enoka
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
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Inhomogeneous and Anisotropic Mechanical Properties of the Triceps Surae Aponeuroses in Older Adults: Relationships With Muscle Strength and Walking Performance. J Aging Phys Act 2021; 29:642-650. [PMID: 33450727 DOI: 10.1123/japa.2020-0180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated (a) site- and direction-dependent variations of passive triceps surae aponeurosis stiffness and (b) the relationships between aponeurosis stiffness and muscle strength and walking performance in older individuals. Seventy-nine healthy older adults participated in this study. Shear wave velocities of the triceps surae aponeuroses at different sites and in two orthogonal directions were obtained in a prone position at rest using supersonic shear imaging. The maximal voluntary isometric contraction torque of the plantar flexors and normal (preferred) and fast (fastest possible) walking speeds (5-m distance) were also measured. The shear wave velocities of the adjoining aponeuroses were weakly associated with plantar flexion torque (r = .23-.34), normal (r = .26), and fast walking speed (r = .25). The results show clear spatial variations and anisotropy of the triceps surae aponeuroses stiffness in vivo, and the aponeurosis stiffness was associated with physical ability in older adults.
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12
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Liu CL, Zhou JP, Sun PT, Chen BZ, Zhang J, Tang CZ, Zhang ZJ. Influence of different knee and ankle ranges of motion on the elasticity of triceps surae muscles, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia. Sci Rep 2020. [DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-63730-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractStiffness is a valuable indicator of the functional capabilities of muscle-tendon-fascia. Twenty healthy subjects participated in this study in which the passive elastic properties of the medial gastrocnemius (MG), lateral gastrocnemius (LG), soleus muscles (SOL), Achilles tendon (AT, at 0 cm, 3 cm and 6 cm proximal to the calcaneus tubercle, corresponding to AT0cm, AT3cm and AT6cm, respectively) and plantar fascia (PF) were quantified when their knee was fully extended or flexed to 90° using shear wave elastography at 25° of dorsiflexion (DF25°), 0° (neutral position) of flexion, and 50° of plantar flexion (PF50°) of the ankle joint. The stiffnesses of the AT, MG, LG, SOL and the fascia with the knee fully extended were significantly higher than those with the knee flexed to 90° (p < 0.05), while the stiffness of the PF showed the opposite relationship (p < 0.05). When the knee was fully extended, the stiffness was higher in the LG than in the MG at PF50° and 0° (p < 0.01), and it was higher in the MG than in the LG at DF25° (p = 0.009). Nevertheless, regardless of the knee angle, the stiffness decreased from AT3cm > AT0cm > AT6cm at PF50° and 0° (p < 0.001), while the stiffness decreased from AT0cm > AT3cm > AT6cm at DF25°. Regardless of the knee and ankle angles, the stiffness of the PF increased in a proximal-to-distal direction (p < 0.001). These insights can be used to gain a more intuitive understanding of the relationships between the elastic properties of the muscle-tendon unit and its function.
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Liu CL, Zhou JP, Sun PT, Chen BZ, Zhang J, Tang CZ, Zhang ZJ. Influence of different knee and ankle ranges of motion on the elasticity of triceps surae muscles, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia. Sci Rep 2020. [DOI: doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-63730-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractStiffness is a valuable indicator of the functional capabilities of muscle-tendon-fascia. Twenty healthy subjects participated in this study in which the passive elastic properties of the medial gastrocnemius (MG), lateral gastrocnemius (LG), soleus muscles (SOL), Achilles tendon (AT, at 0 cm, 3 cm and 6 cm proximal to the calcaneus tubercle, corresponding to AT0cm, AT3cm and AT6cm, respectively) and plantar fascia (PF) were quantified when their knee was fully extended or flexed to 90° using shear wave elastography at 25° of dorsiflexion (DF25°), 0° (neutral position) of flexion, and 50° of plantar flexion (PF50°) of the ankle joint. The stiffnesses of the AT, MG, LG, SOL and the fascia with the knee fully extended were significantly higher than those with the knee flexed to 90° (p < 0.05), while the stiffness of the PF showed the opposite relationship (p < 0.05). When the knee was fully extended, the stiffness was higher in the LG than in the MG at PF50° and 0° (p < 0.01), and it was higher in the MG than in the LG at DF25° (p = 0.009). Nevertheless, regardless of the knee angle, the stiffness decreased from AT3cm > AT0cm > AT6cm at PF50° and 0° (p < 0.001), while the stiffness decreased from AT0cm > AT3cm > AT6cm at DF25°. Regardless of the knee and ankle angles, the stiffness of the PF increased in a proximal-to-distal direction (p < 0.001). These insights can be used to gain a more intuitive understanding of the relationships between the elastic properties of the muscle-tendon unit and its function.
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Liu CL, Zhou JP, Sun PT, Chen BZ, Zhang J, Tang CZ, Zhang ZJ. Influence of different knee and ankle ranges of motion on the elasticity of triceps surae muscles, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia. Sci Rep 2020; 10:6643. [PMID: 32313166 PMCID: PMC7171074 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-63730-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Stiffness is a valuable indicator of the functional capabilities of muscle-tendon-fascia. Twenty healthy subjects participated in this study in which the passive elastic properties of the medial gastrocnemius (MG), lateral gastrocnemius (LG), soleus muscles (SOL), Achilles tendon (AT, at 0 cm, 3 cm and 6 cm proximal to the calcaneus tubercle, corresponding to AT0cm, AT3cm and AT6cm, respectively) and plantar fascia (PF) were quantified when their knee was fully extended or flexed to 90° using shear wave elastography at 25° of dorsiflexion (DF25°), 0° (neutral position) of flexion, and 50° of plantar flexion (PF50°) of the ankle joint. The stiffnesses of the AT, MG, LG, SOL and the fascia with the knee fully extended were significantly higher than those with the knee flexed to 90° (p < 0.05), while the stiffness of the PF showed the opposite relationship (p < 0.05). When the knee was fully extended, the stiffness was higher in the LG than in the MG at PF50° and 0° (p < 0.01), and it was higher in the MG than in the LG at DF25° (p = 0.009). Nevertheless, regardless of the knee angle, the stiffness decreased from AT3cm > AT0cm > AT6cm at PF50° and 0° (p < 0.001), while the stiffness decreased from AT0cm > AT3cm > AT6cm at DF25°. Regardless of the knee and ankle angles, the stiffness of the PF increased in a proximal-to-distal direction (p < 0.001). These insights can be used to gain a more intuitive understanding of the relationships between the elastic properties of the muscle-tendon unit and its function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Long Liu
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ji-Ping Zhou
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Nan'ao people's Hospital, Dapeng New District, Shenzhen, China
| | - Peng-Tao Sun
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bai-Zhen Chen
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chun-Zhi Tang
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Jie Zhang
- Luoyang Orthopedics Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China.
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15
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Liu CL, Zhou JP, Sun PT, Chen BZ, Zhang J, Tang CZ, Zhang ZJ. Influence of different knee and ankle ranges of motion on the elasticity of triceps surae muscles, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia. Sci Rep 2020; 10:6643. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-63730-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 09/11/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractStiffness is a valuable indicator of the functional capabilities of muscle-tendon-fascia. Twenty healthy subjects participated in this study in which the passive elastic properties of the medial gastrocnemius (MG), lateral gastrocnemius (LG), soleus muscles (SOL), Achilles tendon (AT, at 0 cm, 3 cm and 6 cm proximal to the calcaneus tubercle, corresponding to AT0cm, AT3cm and AT6cm, respectively) and plantar fascia (PF) were quantified when their knee was fully extended or flexed to 90° using shear wave elastography at 25° of dorsiflexion (DF25°), 0° (neutral position) of flexion, and 50° of plantar flexion (PF50°) of the ankle joint. The stiffnesses of the AT, MG, LG, SOL and the fascia with the knee fully extended were significantly higher than those with the knee flexed to 90° (p < 0.05), while the stiffness of the PF showed the opposite relationship (p < 0.05). When the knee was fully extended, the stiffness was higher in the LG than in the MG at PF50° and 0° (p < 0.01), and it was higher in the MG than in the LG at DF25° (p = 0.009). Nevertheless, regardless of the knee angle, the stiffness decreased from AT3cm > AT0cm > AT6cm at PF50° and 0° (p < 0.001), while the stiffness decreased from AT0cm > AT3cm > AT6cm at DF25°. Regardless of the knee and ankle angles, the stiffness of the PF increased in a proximal-to-distal direction (p < 0.001). These insights can be used to gain a more intuitive understanding of the relationships between the elastic properties of the muscle-tendon unit and its function.
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CROUZIER MARION, TUCKER KYLIE, LACOURPAILLE LILIAN, DOGUET VALENTIN, FAYET GUILLEMETTE, DAUTY MARC, HUG FRANÇOIS. Force-sharing within the Triceps Surae: An Achilles Heel in Achilles Tendinopathy. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2019; 52:1076-1087. [DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000002229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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17
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Lawson A, Noorkoiv M, Masci L, Mohagheghi AA. Ankle Joint Position and the Reliability of Ultrasound Tissue Characterization of the Achilles Tendon: A Pilot Study. Med Sci Monit 2019; 25:6884-6893. [PMID: 31516131 PMCID: PMC6755937 DOI: 10.12659/msm.915685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Imaging of the Achilles tendon using ultrasound tissue characterization (UTC) involves taking up the slack of the tendon by including dorsiflexion of the ankle. This pilot study aimed to determine whether different longitudinal tension applied to the Achilles tendon during imaging affected the reliability of UTC. Material/Methods Nine asymptomatic active volunteers, aged between 23–49 years underwent imaging of 17 Achilles tendons. Three positions of tension included plantar grade, 50%, and 100% of maximal dorsiflexion, with a range of 18–32°. Ranges were established and standardized using an isokinetic dynamometer. A test and re-test process was conducted at each position to determine the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and minimum detectable change (MDC) per echotype. Images were analyzed using UTC software. Results Plantar grade positioning images could not be obtained. ICCs for each echotype I–IV between test 1 and test 2 were 0.965, 0.962, 0.858, 0.739 at 100% dorsiflexion (95% CI, 0.86–0.99, 0.84–0.99, 0.51–0.97, and 0.2–0.94), and 0.771, 0.551, 0.569, 0.429 at 50% dorsiflexion (95% CI, 0.29–0.94, −0.09–0.88, −0.01–0.88, and −0.15–0.82). The MDC per echotype I–IV ranged between 4.1–1.0% of echotype data at 100% dorsiflexion, and 17.2–6.3% at 50% dorsiflexion. Conclusions Testing at maximum dorsiflexion provided improved reliability when using UTC in healthy individuals. The ICC at 100% dorsiflexion was increased, and the MDC was reduced for all echotypes. Therefore, standardizing test positions when using UTC is advisable for reliable comparison of results between studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Lawson
- Centre for Human Performance, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Brunel University, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marika Noorkoiv
- Centre for Human Performance, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Brunel University, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Amir A Mohagheghi
- Centre for Human Performance, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Brunel University, London, United Kingdom
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18
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Dependence of muscle and deep fascia stiffness on the contraction levels of the quadriceps: An in vivo supersonic shear-imaging study. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2019; 45:33-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2019.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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Tijs C, Bernabei M, van Dieën JH, Maas H. Myofascial Loads Can Occur without Fascicle Length Changes. Integr Comp Biol 2019; 58:251-260. [PMID: 29873725 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icy049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Many studies have shown that connective tissue linkages can transmit force between synergistic muscles and that such force transmission depends on the position of these muscles relative to each other and on properties of their intermuscular connective tissues. Moving neighboring muscles has been reported to cause longitudinal deformations within passive muscles held at a constant muscle-tendon unit (MTU) length (e.g., soleus [SO]), but muscle forces were not directly measured. Deformations do not provide a direct measure of the force transmitted between muscles. We combined two different muscle preparations to assess whether myofascial loads exerted by neighboring muscles result in length changes of SO fascicles. We investigated the effects of proximal MTU length changes of two-joint gastrocnemius (GA) and plantaris (PL) muscles on the fascicle length of the one-joint SO muscle within (1) an intact muscle compartment and (2) a disrupted compartment that allowed measurements of fascicle length and distal tendon force of SO simultaneously. SO muscle bellies of Wistar rats (n = 5) were implanted with sonomicrometry crystals. In three animals, connectivity between SO and GA+PL was enhanced. Measurements were performed before and during maximal excitation of all plantar flexor muscles. In both setups, MTU length of GA+PL did not affect the length of SO fascicles, neither during passive nor active conditions. However, lengthening the MTU of GA+PL increased distal tendon force of SO by 43.3-97.8% (P < 0.001) and 27.5-182.6% (P < 0.001), respectively. This indicates that substantial myofascial force transmission between SO and synergistic muscle can occur via a connective tissue network running parallel to the series of SO sarcomeres without substantial length changes of SO fascicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Tijs
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Concord Field Station-Harvard University, Bedford, MA 01730, USA
| | - Michel Bernabei
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Jaap H van Dieën
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Huub Maas
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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20
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Randhawa A, Wakeling JM. Transverse anisotropy in the deformation of the muscle during dynamic contractions. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 221:jeb.175794. [PMID: 29844202 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.175794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
When pennate muscle fibres shorten, the transverse deformation of fibres results in an increase in pennation angle of fascicles (bundles of fibres) and transverse deformation of muscle belly. Transverse shape changes of a muscle can influence force generation. Recent modelling studies predicted asymmetrical transverse deformations in the muscle fascicles in the gastrocnemii. However, these predictions have not been tested experimentally. As muscle is a 3D entity, it is important to explore the structural changes in a 3D perspective to enhance our understanding of the underlying structural mechanisms that have functional implications. The medial and lateral gastrocnemius muscles from 12 subjects were imaged during plantarflexion movements on a dynamometer. The muscle belly was simultaneously scanned from two orthogonal directions using two ultrasound probes. Fascicle deformations were measured from the two orthogonal ultrasound scans to provide 3D information of muscle geometry. Whilst transverse deformations in the medial gastrocnemius were similar from the two directions, the data for the lateral gastrocnemius confirm that transverse anisotropy can occur in the muscle fascicles. As the lateral gastrocnemius fascicle length shortened, the pennation angle increased and the fascicles bulged transversally in one direction (closest to the typical 2D scanning plane) while thinning in the other orthogonal direction. We suggest that the transverse deformation of the muscle fascicles depends on the stiffness of the aponeuroses, properties of connective tissue structures surrounding muscle, and compressive forces both internal and external to the muscle. These results highlight that muscle fascicles do not bulge uniformly and the implications for this behaviour on muscle function remain largely unexplored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avleen Randhawa
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada, V5A 1S6
| | - James M Wakeling
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada, V5A 1S6
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21
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Clark WH, Franz JR. Do triceps surae muscle dynamics govern non-uniform Achilles tendon deformations? PeerJ 2018; 6:e5182. [PMID: 30013844 PMCID: PMC6046199 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.5182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The human Achilles tendon (AT) consists of sub-tendons arising from the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles that exhibit non-uniform tissue displacements thought to facilitate some independent actuation. However, the mechanisms governing non-uniform displacement patterns within the AT, and their relevance to triceps surae muscle contractile dynamics, have remained elusive. We used a dual-probe ultrasound imaging approach to investigate triceps surae muscle dynamics (i.e., medial gastrocnemius-GAS, soleus-SOL) as a determinant of non-uniform tendon tissue displacements in the human AT. We hypothesized that superficial versus deep differences in AT tissue displacements would be accompanied by and correlate with anatomically consistent differences in GAS versus SOL muscle shortening. Nine subjects performed ramped maximum voluntary isometric contractions at each of five ankle joint angles spanning 10° dorsiflexion to 30° plantarflexion. For all conditions, SOL shortened by an average of 78% more than GAS during moment generation. This was accompanied by, on average, 51% more displacement in the deep versus superficial region of the AT. The magnitude of GAS and SOL muscle shortening positively correlated with displacement in their associated sub-tendons within the AT. Moreover, and as hypothesized, superficial versus deep differences in sub-tendon tissue displacements positively correlated with anatomically consistent differences in GAS versus SOL muscle shortening. We present the first in vivo evidence that triceps surae muscle dynamics may precipitate non-uniform displacement patterns in the architecturally complex AT.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H Clark
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Jason R Franz
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
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22
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Mechanical interaction between neighboring muscles in human upper limb: Evidence for epimuscular myofascial force transmission in humans. J Biomech 2018; 74:150-155. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2018.04.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Revised: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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23
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Valadão P, Kurokawa S, Finni T, Avela J. Effects of muscle action type on corticospinal excitability and triceps surae muscle-tendon mechanics. J Neurophysiol 2018; 119:563-572. [PMID: 29118191 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00079.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated whether the specific motor control strategy reported for eccentric muscle actions is dependent on muscle mechanical behavior. Motor evoked potentials, Hoffman reflex (H-reflex), fascicle length, pennation angle, and fascicle velocity of soleus muscle were compared between isometric and two eccentric conditions. Ten volunteers performed maximal plantarflexion trials in isometric, slow eccentric (25°/s), and fast eccentric (100°/s) conditions, each in a different randomized testing session. H-reflex normalized by the preceding M wave (H/M) was depressed in both eccentric conditions compared with isometric ( P < 0.001), while no differences in fascicle length and pennation angle were found among conditions. Furthermore, although the fast eccentric condition had greater fascicle velocity than slow eccentric ( P = 0.001), there were no differences in H/M. There were no differences in motor evoked potential size between conditions, and silent period was shorter for both eccentric conditions compared with isometric ( P = 0.009). Taken together, the present results corroborate the hypothesis that the central nervous system has an unique activation strategy during eccentric muscle actions and suggest that sensory feedback does not play an important role in modulating these muscle actions. NEW & NOTEWORTHY The present study provides new insight into the motor control of eccentric muscle actions. It was demonstrated that task-dependent corticospinal excitability modulation does not seem to depend on sensory information processing. These findings support the hypothesis that the central nervous system has a unique activation strategy during eccentric muscle actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Valadão
- Neuromuscular Research Center, Department of Biology of Physical Activity, University of Jyväskylä , Jyväskylä , Finland
| | - S Kurokawa
- Center for Liberal Arts, Meiji Gakuin University , Yokohama , Japan
| | - T Finni
- Neuromuscular Research Center, Department of Biology of Physical Activity, University of Jyväskylä , Jyväskylä , Finland
| | - J Avela
- Neuromuscular Research Center, Department of Biology of Physical Activity, University of Jyväskylä , Jyväskylä , Finland
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24
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Maas H, Finni T. Mechanical Coupling Between Muscle-Tendon Units Reduces Peak Stresses. Exerc Sport Sci Rev 2018; 46:26-33. [PMID: 28857890 DOI: 10.1249/jes.0000000000000132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The presence of mechanical linkages between synergistic muscles and their common tendons may distribute forces among the involved structures. We review studies, using humans and other animals, examining muscle and tendon interactions and discuss the hypothesis that connections between muscle bellies and within tendons may serve as a mechanism to distribute forces and mitigate peak stresses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huub Maas
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Taija Finni
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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25
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Passive stiffness of monoarticular lower leg muscles is influenced by knee joint angle. Eur J Appl Physiol 2018; 118:585-593. [DOI: 10.1007/s00421-018-3798-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 12/24/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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26
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Finni T, Bernabei M, Baan GC, Noort W, Tijs C, Maas H. Non-uniform displacement and strain between the soleus and gastrocnemius subtendons of rat Achilles tendon. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2017; 28:1009-1017. [DOI: 10.1111/sms.13001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- T. Finni
- Neuromuscular Research Center; Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences; University of Jyväskylä; Jyväskylä Finland
| | - M. Bernabei
- Department of Human Movement Sciences; Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences; Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam; Amsterdam Movement Sciences; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - G. C. Baan
- Department of Human Movement Sciences; Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences; Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam; Amsterdam Movement Sciences; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - W. Noort
- Department of Human Movement Sciences; Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences; Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam; Amsterdam Movement Sciences; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - C. Tijs
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology; Harvard University, Concord Field Station; Bedford MA USA
| | - H. Maas
- Department of Human Movement Sciences; Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences; Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam; Amsterdam Movement Sciences; Amsterdam The Netherlands
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27
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Hug F, Tucker K. Muscle Coordination and the Development of Musculoskeletal Disorders. Exerc Sport Sci Rev 2017; 45:201-208. [DOI: 10.1249/jes.0000000000000122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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28
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Bogaerts S, De Brito Carvalho C, Scheys L, Desloovere K, D’hooge J, Maes F, Suetens P, Peers K. Evaluation of tissue displacement and regional strain in the Achilles tendon using quantitative high-frequency ultrasound. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0181364. [PMID: 28727745 PMCID: PMC5519157 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0181364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The Achilles tendon has a unique structure-function relationship thanks to its innate hierarchical architecture in combination with the rotational anatomy of the sub-tendons from the triceps surae muscles. Previous research has provided valuable insight in global Achilles tendon mechanics, but limitations with the technique used remain. Furthermore, given the global approach evaluating muscle-tendon junction to insertion, regional differences in tendon mechanical properties might be overlooked. However, recent advancements in the field of ultrasound imaging in combination with speckle tracking have made an intratendinous evaluation possible. This study uses high-frequency ultrasound to allow for quantification of regional tendon deformation. Also, an interactive application was developed to improve clinical applicability. A dynamic ultrasound of both Achilles tendons of ten asymptomatic subjects was taken. The displacement and regional strain in the superficial, middle and deep layer were evaluated during passive elongation and isometric contraction. Building on previous research, results showed that the Achilles tendon displaces non-uniformly with a higher displacement found in the deep layer of the tendon. Adding to this, a non-uniform regional strain behavior was found in the Achilles tendon during passive elongation, with the highest strain in the superficial layer. Further exploration of tendon mechanics will improve the knowledge on etiology of tendinopathy and provide options to optimize existing therapeutic loading programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stijn Bogaerts
- Department of Development & Regeneration, KULeuven / Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Lennart Scheys
- Department of Development & Regeneration, Institute for Orthopedic Research and Training (IORT), KULeuven / Division of Orthopedics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kaat Desloovere
- Clinical Motion Analysis Laboratory, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, KULeuven and University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jan D’hooge
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Frederik Maes
- ESAT/PSI & UZ Leuven, MIRC, KULeuven and University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Paul Suetens
- ESAT/PSI & UZ Leuven, MIRC, KULeuven and University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Koen Peers
- Department of Development & Regeneration, KULeuven / Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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29
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Le Sant G, Nordez A, Andrade R, Hug F, Freitas S, Gross R. Stiffness mapping of lower leg muscles during passive dorsiflexion. J Anat 2017; 230:639-650. [PMID: 28251615 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
It is challenging to differentiate the mechanical properties of synergist muscles in vivo. Shear wave elastography can be used to quantify the shear modulus (i.e. an index of stiffness) of a specific muscle. This study assessed the passive behavior of lower leg muscles during passive dorsiflexion performed with the knee fully extended (experiment 1, n = 22) or with the knee flexed at 90° (experiment 2, n = 20). The shear modulus measurements were repeated twice during experiment 1 to assess the inter-day reliability. During both experiments, the shear modulus of the following plantar flexors was randomly measured: gastrocnemii medialis (GM) and lateralis (GL), soleus (SOL), peroneus longus (PL), and the deep muscles flexor digitorum longus (FDL), flexor hallucis longus (FHL), tibialis posterior (TP). Two antagonist muscles tibialis anterior (TA), and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) were also recorded. Measurements were performed in different proximo-distal regions for GM, GL and SOL. Inter-day reliability was adequate for all muscles (coefficient of variation < 15%), except for TP. In experiment 1, GM exhibited the highest shear modulus at 80% of the maximal range of motion (128.5 ± 27.3 kPa) and was followed by GL (67.1 ± 24.1 kPa). In experiment 2, SOL exhibited the highest shear modulus (55.1 ± 18.0 kPa). The highest values of shear modulus were found for the distal locations of both the GM (80% of participants in experiment 1) and the SOL (100% of participants in experiment 2). For both experiments, deep muscles and PL exhibited low levels of stiffness during the stretch in young asymptomatic adults, which was unknown until now. These results provide a deeper understanding of passive mechanical properties and the distribution of stiffness between and within the plantar flexor muscles during stretching between them and thus could be relevant to study the effects of aging, disease progression, and rehabilitation on stiffness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Le Sant
- University of Nantes, Laboratory 'Movement, Interactions, Performance' (EA 4334), Faculty of Sport Sciences, Nantes, France.,School of Physiotherapy, IFM3R, Nantes, France
| | - Antoine Nordez
- University of Nantes, Laboratory 'Movement, Interactions, Performance' (EA 4334), Faculty of Sport Sciences, Nantes, France
| | - Ricardo Andrade
- University of Nantes, Laboratory 'Movement, Interactions, Performance' (EA 4334), Faculty of Sport Sciences, Nantes, France.,Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, CIPER, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - François Hug
- University of Nantes, Laboratory 'Movement, Interactions, Performance' (EA 4334), Faculty of Sport Sciences, Nantes, France.,School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Centre for Clinical Research Excellence in Spinal Pain, Injury and Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Sandro Freitas
- Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, CIPER, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Benfica Lab, Sport Lisboa e Benfica, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Raphaël Gross
- University of Nantes, Laboratory 'Movement, Interactions, Performance' (EA 4334), Faculty of Sport Sciences, Nantes, France.,Gait Analysis Laboratory, Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine Department, University Hospital of Nantes, Nantes, France
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30
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Bernabei M, van Dieën JH, Maas H. Longitudinal and transversal displacements between triceps surae muscles during locomotion of the rat. J Exp Biol 2017; 220:537-550. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.143545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 11/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
The functional consequences of differential muscle activation and contractile behavior between mechanically coupled synergists are still poorly understood. Even though synergistic muscles exert similar mechanical effects at the joint they span, differences in the anatomy, morphology and neural drive may lead to non-uniform contractile conditions. This study aimed to investigate the patterns of activation and contractile behavior of triceps surae muscles, to understand how these contribute to the relative displacement between the one-joint soleus (SO) and two-joint lateral gastrocnemius (LG) muscle bellies and their distal tendons during locomotion in the rat. In seven rats, muscle belly lengths and muscle activation during level and upslope trotting were measured by sonomicrometry crystals and electromyographic electrodes chronically implanted in the SO and LG. Length changes of muscle–tendon units (MTUs) and tendon fascicles were estimated based on joint kinematics and muscle belly lengths. Distances between implanted crystals were further used to assess longitudinal and transversal deformations of the intermuscular volume between the SO and LG. For both slope conditions, we observed differential timing of muscle activation as well as substantial differences in contraction speeds between muscle bellies (maximal relative speed 55.9 mm s−1). Muscle lengths and velocities did not differ significantly between level and upslope locomotion, only EMG amplitude of the LG was affected by slope. Relative displacements between SO and LG MTUs were found in both longitudinal and transversal directions, yielding an estimated maximal length change difference of 2.0 mm between their distal tendons. Such relative displacements may have implications for the force exchanged via intermuscular and intertendinous pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel Bernabei
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1081, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap H. van Dieën
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1081, The Netherlands
| | - Huub Maas
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1081, The Netherlands
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Tijs C, van Dieën JH, Baan GC, Maas H. Synergistic Co-activation Increases the Extent of Mechanical Interaction between Rat Ankle Plantar-Flexors. Front Physiol 2016; 7:414. [PMID: 27708589 PMCID: PMC5030264 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2016.00414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Force transmission between rat ankle plantar-flexors has been found for physiological muscle lengths and relative positions, but only with all muscles maximally activated. The aims of this study were to assess intermuscular mechanical interactions between ankle plantar-flexors during (i) fully passive conditions, (ii) excitation of soleus (SO), (iii) excitation of lateral gastrocnemius (LG), and (iv) during co-activation of SO, and LG (SO&LG). We assessed effects of proximal lengthening of LG and plantaris (PL) muscles (i.e., simulating knee extension) on forces exerted at the distal SO tendon (FSO) and on the force difference between the proximal and distal LG+PL tendons (ΔFLG+PL) of the rat. LG+PL lengthening increased FSO to a larger extent (p = 0.017) during LG excitation (0.0026 N/mm) than during fully passive conditions (0.0009 N/mm). Changes in FSO in response to LG+PL lengthening were lower (p = 0.002) during SO only excitation (0.0056 N/mm) than during SO&LG excitation (0.0101 N/mm). LG+PL lengthening changed ΔFLG+PL to a larger extent (p = 0.007) during SO excitation (0.0211 N/mm) than during fully passive conditions (0.0157 N/mm). In contrast, changes in ΔFLG+PL in response to LG+PL lengthening during LG excitation (0.0331 N/mm) were similar (p = 0.161) to that during SO&LG excitation (0.0370 N/mm). In all conditions, changes of FSO were lower than those of ΔFLG+PL. This indicates that muscle forces were transmitted not only between LG+PL and SO, but also between LG+PL and other surrounding structures. In addition, epimuscular myofascial force transmission between rat ankle plantar-flexors was enhanced by muscle activation. However, the magnitude of this interaction was limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Tijs
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Sciences, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdam, Netherlands; Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard UniversityCambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jaap H van Dieën
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Sciences, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Guus C Baan
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Sciences, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Huub Maas
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Sciences, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands
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32
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Bernabei M, Maas H, van Dieën JH. A lumped stiffness model of intermuscular and extramuscular myofascial pathways of force transmission. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2016; 15:1747-1763. [PMID: 27193153 PMCID: PMC5106516 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-016-0795-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Mechanical behavior of skeletal muscles is commonly modeled under the assumption of mechanical independence between individual muscles within a muscle group. Epimuscular myofascial force transmission via the connective tissue network surrounding a muscle challenges this assumption as it alters the force distributed to the tendons of individual muscles. This study aimed to derive a lumped estimate of stiffness of the intermuscular and extramuscular connective tissues and to assess changes in such stiffness in response to a manipulation of the interface between adjacent muscles. Based on in situ measurements of force transmission in the rat plantar flexors, before and after resection of their connective tissue network, a nonlinear estimate of epimuscular myofascial stiffness was quantified and included in a multi-muscle model with lumped parameters which allows for force transmission depending on the relative position between the muscles in the group. Such stiffness estimate was assessed for a group with normal intermuscular connective tissues and for a group with increased connectivity, mimicking scar tissue development. The model was able to successfully predict the amount of epimuscular force transmission for different experimental conditions than those used to obtain the model parameters. The proposed nonlinear stiffness estimates of epimuscular pathways could be integrated in larger musculoskeletal models, to provide more accurate predictions of force when effects of mechanical interaction or altered epimuscular connections, e.g. after surgery or injury, are substantial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel Bernabei
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 9, 1081, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Huub Maas
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 9, 1081, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Jaap H van Dieën
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 9, 1081, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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