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Mornas A, Brocherie F, Hollville E, Derouck T, Racinais S, Guilhem G. Running 40 Minutes under Temperate or Hot Environment Does Not Affect Operating Fascicle Length. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2024; 56:1140-1150. [PMID: 38233977 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000003387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Muscle mechanics is paramount in our understanding of motor performance. However, little is known regarding the sensitivity of fascicle dynamics and connective tissues stiffness to exercise duration and ambient temperature during running, both increasing muscle temperature. This study aimed to determine gastrocnemius medialis (GM) fascicle dynamics in vivo during running in temperate and hot conditions, as well as muscle-tendon unit responses. METHODS Using ultrafast ultrasound, 15 participants (8 men, 7 women; 26 ± 3 yr) were tested before, during (2 and 40 min), and after a running task (40 min at 10 km·h -1 ) in temperate (TEMP; ~23°C) and hot (HOT: ~38°C) conditions. RESULTS Although core, skin temperatures, and heart rate increased from the beginning to the end of the exercise and in a larger extent in HOT than TEMP ( P < 0.001), the physiological stress elicited did not alter running temporal parameters and GM fascicle operating lengths, with similar behavior of the fascicles on their force-length relationship, over time (2 vs 40 min) or across condition (TEMP vs HOT; P ≥ 0.248). Maximal voluntary force production did not reported statistical changes after exercise ( P = 0.060), and the connective tissues stiffness measured (i.e., passive muscle and stiffness of the series-elastic elements) did not show neither time ( P ≥ 0.281), condition ( P ≥ 0.256) nor time-condition interaction ( P ≥ 0.465) effect. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed that prolonged running exercise does not alter muscle-tendon unit properties and interplay, which are not influenced by ambient temperature. These findings may rule out potential detrimental effects of heat on muscle properties and encourage further investigations on longer and more intense running exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Franck Brocherie
- French Institute of Sport (INSEP), Laboratory Sport, Expertise and Performance (EA 7370), Paris, FRANCE
| | - Enzo Hollville
- French Institute of Sport (INSEP), Laboratory Sport, Expertise and Performance (EA 7370), Paris, FRANCE
| | | | | | - GaËL Guilhem
- French Institute of Sport (INSEP), Laboratory Sport, Expertise and Performance (EA 7370), Paris, FRANCE
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2
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Deng L, Dai B, Zhang X, Xiao S, Fu W. Effects of gait retraining using minimalist shoes on the medial gastrocnemius muscle-tendon unit behavior and dynamics during running. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2024; 34:e14630. [PMID: 38644663 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14630] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
The effects of a 12-week gait retraining program on the adaptation of the medial gastrocnemius (MG) and muscle-tendon unit (MTU) were investigated. 26 runners with a rearfoot strike pattern (RFS) were randomly assigned to one of two groups: gait retraining (GR) or control group (CON). MG ultrasound images, marker positions, and ground reaction forces (GRF) were collected twice during 9 km/h of treadmill running before and after the intervention. Ankle kinetics and the MG and MTU behavior and dynamics were quantified. Runners in the GR performed gradual 12-week gait retraining transitioning to a forefoot strike pattern. After 12-week, (1) ten participants in each group completed the training; eight participants in GR transitioned to non-RFS with reduced foot strike angles; (2) MG fascicle contraction length and velocity significantly decreased after the intervention for both groups, whereas MG forces increased after intervention for both groups; (3) significant increases in MTU stretching length for GR and peak MTU recoiling velocity for both groups were observed after the intervention, respectively; (4) no significant difference was found for all parameters of the series elastic element. Gait retraining might potentially influence the MG to operate at lower fascicle contraction lengths and velocities and produce greater peak forces. The gait retraining had no effect on SEE behavior and dynamics but did impact MTU, suggesting that the training was insufficient to induce mechanical loading changes on SEE behavior and dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqin Deng
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Boyi Dai
- Division of Kinesiology and Health, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, USA
| | - Xini Zhang
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Songlin Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Weijie Fu
- Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
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3
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Pinto MD, Nosaka K, Wakeling JM, Blazevich AJ. Human in vivo medial gastrocnemius gear during active and passive muscle lengthening: effect of inconsistent methods and nomenclature on data interpretation. Biol Open 2023; 12:bio060023. [PMID: 37584384 PMCID: PMC10497039 DOI: 10.1242/bio.060023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
'Muscle gear' is calculated as the ratio of fascicle-to-muscle length change, strain, or velocity. Inconsistencies in nomenclature and definitions of gear exist across disciplines partly due to differences in fascicle [curved (Lf) versus linear (Lf,straight)] and muscle [whole-muscle belly (Lb) versus belly segment (Lb,segment)] length calculation methods. We tested whether these differences affect gear magnitude during passive and active muscle lengthening of human medial gastrocnemius of young men (n=13, 26.3±5.0 years) using an isokinetic dynamometer. Lb, Lb,segment, Lf and Lf,straight were measured from motion analysis and ultrasound imaging data. Downshifts in belly gear but not belly segment gear occurred with muscle lengthening only during active lengthening. Muscle gear was unaffected by fascicle length measurement method (P=0.18) but differed when calculated as changes in Lb or Lb,segment (P<0.01) in a length-dependent manner. Caution is therefore advised for the use and interpretation of different muscle gear calculation methods and nomenclatures in animal and human comparative physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matheus Daros Pinto
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup 6027, Australia
| | - Kazunori Nosaka
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup 6027, Australia
| | - James M. Wakeling
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Anthony J. Blazevich
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup 6027, Australia
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4
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Adam NC, Smith CR, Herzog W, Amis AA, Arampatzis A, Taylor WR. In Vivo Strain Patterns in the Achilles Tendon During Dynamic Activities: A Comprehensive Survey of the Literature. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2023; 9:60. [PMID: 37466866 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-023-00604-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Achilles' tendon (AT) injuries such as ruptures and tendinopathies have experienced a dramatic rise in the mid- to older-aged population. Given that the AT plays a key role at all stages of locomotion, unsuccessful rehabilitation after injury often leads to long-term, deleterious health consequences. Understanding healthy in vivo strains as well as the complex muscle-tendon unit interactions will improve access to the underlying aetiology of injuries and how their functionality can be effectively restored post-injury. The goals of this survey of the literature with a systematic search were to provide a benchmark of healthy AT strains measured in vivo during functional activities and identify the sources of variability observed in the results. Two databases were searched, and all articles that provided measured in vivo peak strains or the change in strain with respect to time were included. In total, 107 articles that reported subjects over the age of 18 years with no prior AT injury and measured while performing functional activities such as voluntary contractions, walking, running, jumping, or jump landing were included in this review. In general, unclear anatomical definitions of the sub-tendon and aponeurosis structures have led to considerable confusion in the literature. MRI, ultrasound, and motion capture were the predominant approaches, sometimes coupled with modelling. The measured peak strains increased from 4% to over 10% from contractions, to walking, running, and jumping, in that order. Importantly, measured AT strains were heavily dependent on measurement location, measurement method, measurement protocol, individual AT geometry, and mechanical properties, as well as instantaneous kinematics and kinetics of the studied activity. Through a comprehensive review of approaches and results, this survey of the literature therefore converges to a united terminology of the structures and their common underlying characteristics and presents the state-of-knowledge on their functional strain patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi C Adam
- Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zürich, Leopold-Ruzicka-Weg 4, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Colin R Smith
- Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zürich, Leopold-Ruzicka-Weg 4, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Walter Herzog
- Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, The University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Andrew A Amis
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Adamantios Arampatzis
- Department of Training and Movement Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin School of Movement Science, Berlin, Germany
| | - William R Taylor
- Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zürich, Leopold-Ruzicka-Weg 4, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Dines HR, Nixon J, Lockey SJ, Herbert AJ, Kipps C, Pedlar CR, Day SH, Heffernan SM, Antrobus MR, Brazier J, Erskine RM, Stebbings GK, Hall ECR, Williams AG. Collagen Gene Polymorphisms Previously Associated with Resistance to Soft-Tissue Injury Are More Common in Competitive Runners Than Nonathletes. J Strength Cond Res 2023; 37:799-805. [PMID: 36763468 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000004291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Dines, HR, Nixon, J, Lockey, SJ, Herbert, AJ, Kipps, C, Pedlar, CR, Day, SH, Heffernan, SM, Antrobus, MR, Brazier, J, Erskine, RM, Stebbings, GK, Hall, ECR, and Williams, AG. Collagen gene polymorphisms previously associated with resistance to soft-tissue injury are more common in competitive runners than nonathletes. J Strength Cond Res 37(4): 799-805, 2023-Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of collagen genes have been associated with soft-tissue injury and running performance. However, their combined contribution to running performance is unknown. We investigated the association of 2 collagen gene SNPs with athlete status and performance in 1,429 Caucasian subjects, including 597 competitive runners (354 men and 243 women) and 832 nonathletes (490 men and 342 women). Genotyping for COL1A1 rs1800012 (C > A) and COL5A1 rs12722 (C > T) SNPs was performed by a real-time polymerase chain reaction. The numbers of "injury-resistant" alleles from each SNP, based on previous literature (rs1800012 A allele and rs12722 C allele), were combined as an injury-resistance score (RScore, 0-4; higher scores indicate injury resistance). Genotype frequencies, individually and combined as an RScore, were compared between cohorts and investigated for associations with performance using official race times. Runners had 1.34 times greater odds of being rs12722 CC homozygotes than nonathletes (19.7% vs. 15.5%, p = 0.020) with no difference in the rs1800012 genotype distribution ( p = 0.659). Fewer runners had an RScore 0 of (18.5% vs. 24.7%) and more had an RScore of 4 (0.6% vs. 0.3%) than nonathletes ( p < 0.001). Competitive performance was not associated with the COL1A1 genotype ( p = 0.933), COL5A1 genotype ( p = 0.613), or RScore ( p = 0.477). Although not associated directly with running performance among competitive runners, a higher combined frequency of injury-resistant COL1A1 rs1800012 A and COL5A1 rs12722 C alleles in competitive runners than nonathletes suggests these SNPs may be advantageous through a mechanism that supports, but does not directly enhance, running performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah R Dines
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer Nixon
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah J Lockey
- School of Medicine, Facutly of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, United Kingdom
| | - Adam J Herbert
- Department of Sport and Exercise, Research Center for Life and Sport Sciences (CLaSS), School of Health Sciences, Birmingham City University, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Courtney Kipps
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Charles R Pedlar
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Sport, Allied Health and Performance Science, St Mary's University, Twickenham, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen H Day
- School of Medicine and Clinical Practice, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom
| | - Shane M Heffernan
- Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM), College of Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Mark R Antrobus
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Life Sciences, University of Northampton, Northampton, United Kingdom
| | - Jon Brazier
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychology and Sports Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom ; and
| | - Robert M Erskine
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Georgina K Stebbings
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Elliott C R Hall
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Alun G Williams
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Sport, Allied Health and Performance Science, St Mary's University, Twickenham, United Kingdom
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6
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Demangeot Y, Whiteley R, Gremeaux V, Degache F. The load borne by the Achilles tendon during exercise: A systematic review of normative values. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2023; 33:110-126. [PMID: 36278501 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14242] [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: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The Achilles tendon (AT) can be exposed to considerable stress during athletic activities and is often subject to pathologies such as tendinopathies. When designing a prevention or rehabilitation protocol, mechanical loading is a key factor to consider. This implies being able to accurately determine the load applied to the AT when performing exercises that stress this tendon. A systematic review was performed to synthesize the load borne by the AT during exercises/activities. Three databases (Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane) were searched for articles up to May 2021, and only the studies assessing the AT load in newtons relative to body-weight (BW) on humans during activities or exercises were included. Most of the 11 included studies assessed AT load when running or walking (N = 10), and only three tested exercises were usually performed during rehabilitation. The load on the tendon ranged from 2.7 to 3.95 BW when walking, from 4.15 to 7.71 BW when running, and from 0.41 to 7.3 BW according to the strengthening exercise performed. From the collected data, a progression of exercises progressively loading the Achilles tendon, as well as the possible connections with walking and running activities, could be defined. However, the trends highlighted in the relationship between tendon loading and walking or running speeds present some inconsistencies. Further research is still needed to clarify them, but also to complete the data set in healthy and injured people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoann Demangeot
- Therapeutic and Performance Sports Institute, MotionLab, Le Mont-sur-Lausanne, Switzerland.,Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Rod Whiteley
- Aspetar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Doha, Qatar
| | - Vincent Gremeaux
- Unit of Sports Medicine, Swiss Olympic Medical Center, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Francis Degache
- Therapeutic and Performance Sports Institute, MotionLab, Le Mont-sur-Lausanne, Switzerland
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Movement in low gravity environments (MoLo) programme-The MoLo-L.O.O.P. study protocol. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0278051. [PMID: 36417480 PMCID: PMC9683620 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to prolonged periods in microgravity is associated with deconditioning of the musculoskeletal system due to chronic changes in mechanical stimulation. Given astronauts will operate on the Lunar surface for extended periods of time, it is critical to quantify both external (e.g., ground reaction forces) and internal (e.g., joint reaction forces) loads of relevant movements performed during Lunar missions. Such knowledge is key to predict musculoskeletal deconditioning and determine appropriate exercise countermeasures associated with extended exposure to hypogravity. OBJECTIVES The aim of this paper is to define an experimental protocol and methodology suitable to estimate in high-fidelity hypogravity conditions the lower limb internal joint reaction forces. State-of-the-art movement kinetics, kinematics, muscle activation and muscle-tendon unit behaviour during locomotor and plyometric movements will be collected and used as inputs (Objective 1), with musculoskeletal modelling and an optimisation framework used to estimate lower limb internal joint loading (Objective 2). METHODS Twenty-six healthy participants will be recruited for this cross-sectional study. Participants will walk, skip and run, at speeds ranging between 0.56-3.6 m/s, and perform plyometric movement trials at each gravity level (1, 0.7, 0.5, 0.38, 0.27 and 0.16g) in a randomized order. Through the collection of state-of-the-art kinetics, kinematics, muscle activation and muscle-tendon behaviour, a musculoskeletal modelling framework will be used to estimate lower limb joint reaction forces via tracking simulations. CONCLUSION The results of this study will provide first estimations of internal musculoskeletal loads associated with human movement performed in a range of hypogravity levels. Thus, our unique data will be a key step towards modelling the musculoskeletal deconditioning associated with long term habitation on the Lunar surface, and thereby aiding the design of Lunar exercise countermeasures and mitigation strategies.
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Lazarczuk SL, Maniar N, Opar DA, Duhig SJ, Shield A, Barrett RS, Bourne MN. Mechanical, Material and Morphological Adaptations of Healthy Lower Limb Tendons to Mechanical Loading: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Sports Med 2022; 52:2405-2429. [PMID: 35657492 PMCID: PMC9474511 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-022-01695-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to increased mechanical loading during physical training can lead to increased tendon stiffness. However, the loading regimen that maximises tendon adaptation and the extent to which adaptation is driven by changes in tendon material properties or tendon geometry is not fully understood. OBJECTIVE To determine (1) the effect of mechanical loading on tendon stiffness, modulus and cross-sectional area (CSA); (2) whether adaptations in stiffness are driven primarily by changes in CSA or modulus; (3) the effect of training type and associated loading parameters (relative intensity; localised strain, load duration, load volume and contraction mode) on stiffness, modulus or CSA; and (4) whether the magnitude of adaptation in tendon properties differs between age groups. METHODS Five databases (PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, EMBASE) were searched for studies detailing load-induced adaptations in tendon morphological, material or mechanical properties. Standardised mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated and data were pooled using a random effects model to estimate variance. Meta regression was used to examine the moderating effects of changes in tendon CSA and modulus on tendon stiffness. RESULTS Sixty-one articles met the inclusion criteria. The total number of participants in the included studies was 763. The Achilles tendon (33 studies) and the patella tendon (24 studies) were the most commonly studied regions. Resistance training was the main type of intervention (49 studies). Mechanical loading produced moderate increases in stiffness (standardised mean difference (SMD) 0.74; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.62-0.86), large increases in modulus (SMD 0.82; 95% CI 0.58-1.07), and small increases in CSA (SMD 0.22; 95% CI 0.12-0.33). Meta-regression revealed that the main moderator of increased stiffness was modulus. Resistance training interventions induced greater increases in modulus than other training types (SMD 0.90; 95% CI 0.65-1.15) and higher strain resistance training protocols induced greater increases in modulus (SMD 0.82; 95% CI 0.44-1.20; p = 0.009) and stiffness (SMD 1.04; 95% CI 0.65-1.43; p = 0.007) than low-strain protocols. The magnitude of stiffness and modulus differences were greater in adult participants. CONCLUSIONS Mechanical loading leads to positive adaptation in lower limb tendon stiffness, modulus and CSA. Studies to date indicate that the main mechanism of increased tendon stiffness due to physical training is increased tendon modulus, and that resistance training performed at high compared to low localised tendon strains is associated with the greatest positive tendon adaptation. PROSPERO registration no.: CRD42019141299.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Lazarczuk
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia.
- Griffith Centre of Biomedical and Rehabilitation Engineering (GCORE), Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia.
| | - Nirav Maniar
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Sports Performance, Recovery, Injury and New Technologies (SPRINT) Research Centre, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - David A Opar
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Sports Performance, Recovery, Injury and New Technologies (SPRINT) Research Centre, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Steven J Duhig
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
- Griffith Centre of Biomedical and Rehabilitation Engineering (GCORE), Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Anthony Shield
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Rod S Barrett
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
- Griffith Centre of Biomedical and Rehabilitation Engineering (GCORE), Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Matthew N Bourne
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
- Griffith Centre of Biomedical and Rehabilitation Engineering (GCORE), Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
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Sun D, Song Y, Cen X, Wang M, Baker JS, Gu Y. Workflow assessing the effect of Achilles tendon rupture on gait function and metatarsal stress: Combined musculoskeletal modeling and finite element analysis. Proc Inst Mech Eng H 2022; 236:676-685. [PMID: 35311405 DOI: 10.1177/09544119221085795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) incidence has increased among badminton players in recent years. The foot internal stress was hard to obtain through experimental testing. The purpose of the current research is to develop a methodology that could improve the finite element model derived foot internal stress prediction for ATR clinical and rehabilitation applications. A subject-specific musculoskeletal model was combined with a 3D finite element model to predict the metatarsal stress. The 80% point during the push-off phase of walking was selected for the comparing between injured and uninjured sides. The surgical repaired Achilles tendon (AT) after 12 months was elongated by 5.5% than the uninjured tendon. At 80% point of stance phase, the ankle plantarflexion angle and AT force decreased by 39.6% and 21.9% on the injured side, respectively. The foot inversion degree increased by 22.9% and was accompanied by the redistribution of metatarsals von Mises stress. The stresses on the fourth and fifth metatarsals were increased by 59.5% and 85.9% on the injured side. The workflow is available to assess musculoskeletal disorders and obtain foot internal stress after ATR. The decreased ankle plantar flexor force may be affected by triceps surae muscle atrophy and weakened force transmission ability of elongated AT. The increased von Mises stress on fourth and fifth metatarsals accompanied by higher foot inversion may increase the ankle lateral sprain injury risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Sun
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yang Song
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,Doctoral School on Safety and Security Sciences, Obuda University, Budapest, Hungary.,Faculty of Engineering, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Xuanzhen Cen
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,Doctoral School on Safety and Security Sciences, Obuda University, Budapest, Hungary.,Faculty of Engineering, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Meizi Wang
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,Doctoral School on Safety and Security Sciences, Obuda University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Julien Steven Baker
- Centre for Health and Exercise Science Research, Department of Sport, Physical Education and Health, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yaodong Gu
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
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10
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Peixoto T, Carneiro S, Pereira F, Santos C, Fangueiro R, Duarte I, Paiva MC, Lopes MA, Guedes RM. Hybrid structures for Achilles' tendon repair. POLYM ADVAN TECHNOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pat.5693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tânia Peixoto
- REQUIMTE‐LAQV, Departamento de Engenharia Metalúrgica e Materiais, Faculdade de Engenharia Universidade do Porto Porto Portugal
- Instituto de Polímeros e Compósitos, Departamento de Engenharia de Polímeros Universidade do Minho Guimarães Portugal
| | - Sofia Carneiro
- REQUIMTE‐LAQV, Departamento de Engenharia Metalúrgica e Materiais, Faculdade de Engenharia Universidade do Porto Porto Portugal
| | - Fábio Pereira
- CITAB, Escola de Ciência e Tecnologia Universidade de Trás‐os‐Montes e Alto Douro Vila Real Portugal
| | - Cristóvão Santos
- LAETA – Laboratório Associado em Energia Transportes e Aeronáutica – INEGI Porto Portugal
| | - Raúl Fangueiro
- Centro de Ciência e Tecnologia Têxtil Universidade do Minho Guimarães Portugal
| | - Isabel Duarte
- Centro de Tecnologia Mecânica e Automação (TEMA), Departamento de Engenharia Mecânica Universidade de Aveiro Aveiro Portugal
| | - Maria C. Paiva
- Instituto de Polímeros e Compósitos, Departamento de Engenharia de Polímeros Universidade do Minho Guimarães Portugal
| | - Maria A. Lopes
- REQUIMTE‐LAQV, Departamento de Engenharia Metalúrgica e Materiais, Faculdade de Engenharia Universidade do Porto Porto Portugal
| | - Rui M. Guedes
- INEGI, Departamento de Engenharia Mecânica, Faculdade de Engenharia Universidade do Porto Porto Portugal
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Mauvieux B, Hingrand C, Drigny J, Hodzic A, Baron P, Hurdiel R, Jouffroy R, Vauthier JC, Pessiglione M, Wiehler A, Degache F, Pavailler S, Heyman E, Plard M, Noirez P, Dubois B, Esculier JF, Nguyen AP, Van Cant J, Roy Baillargeon O, Pairot de Fontenay B, Delaunay PL, Besnard S. Study of the kinetics of the determinants of performance during a mountain ultra marathon: Multidisciplinary protocol of the first Trail Scientifique de Clécy 2021 (Preprint). JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e38027. [PMID: 35704381 PMCID: PMC9244647 DOI: 10.2196/38027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The growing interest of the scientific community in trail running has highlighted the acute effects of practice at the time of these races on isolated aspects of physiological and structural systems; biological, physiological, cognitive, and muscular functions; and the psychological state of athletes. However, no integrative study has been conducted under these conditions with so many participants and monitoring of pre-, per-, and postrace variables for up to 10 days over a distance close to 100 miles. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the kinetics of the performance parameters during a 156 km trail run and 6000 m of elevation gain in pre-, per-, and postrace conditions. The general hypothesis is based on significant alterations in the psychological, physiological, mechanical, biological, and cognitive parameters. Methods The Trail Scientifique de Clécy took place on November 11, 2021. This prospective experimental study provides a comprehensive exploration of the constraints and adaptations of psychophysiological and sociological variables assessed in real race conditions during a trail running of 156 km on hilly ground and 6000 m of elevation gain (D+). The study protocol allowed for repeatability of study measurements under the same experimental conditions during the race, with the race being divided into 6 identical loops of 26 km and 1000 m D+. Measurements were conducted the day before and the morning of the race, at the end of each lap, after a pit stop, and up to 10 days after the race. A total of 55 participants were included, 43 (78%) men and 12 (22%) women, who were experienced in ultra–trail-running events and with no contraindications to the practice of this sport. Results The launch of the study was authorized on October 26, 2021, under the trial number 21-0166 after a favorable opinion from the Comité de Protection des Personnes Ouest III (21.09.61/SIRIPH 2G 21.01586.000009). Of the 55 runners enrolled, 41 (75%) completed the race and 14 (25%) dropped out for various reasons, including gastric problems, hypothermia, fatigue, and musculoskeletal injuries. All the measurements for each team were completed in full. The race times (ie, excluding the measurements) ranged from 17.8206 hours for the first runner to 35.9225 hours for the last runner. The average time to complete all measurements for each lap was 64 (SD 3) minutes. Conclusions The Trail Scientifique de Clécy, by its protocol, allowed for a multidisciplinary approach to the discipline. This approach will allow for the explanation of the studied parameters in relation to each other and observation of the systems of dependence and independence. The initial results are expected in June 2022. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) RR1-10.2196/38027
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Joffrey Drigny
- U1075 Comete/INSERM, Université de Caen, Caen, France
- Unité de Médecine du Sport, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Caen Normandie, Caen, France
| | - Amir Hodzic
- U1075 Comete/INSERM, Université de Caen, Caen, France
- Unité de Médecine du Sport, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Caen Normandie, Caen, France
| | - Pauline Baron
- ULR 7369 - Unité de Recherche Pluridisciplinaire Sport, Santé, Société, Université du Littoral Côte d'Opale, Dunkerque, France
| | - Rémy Hurdiel
- ULR 7369 - Unité de Recherche Pluridisciplinaire Sport, Santé, Société, Université du Littoral Côte d'Opale, Dunkerque, France
| | - Romain Jouffroy
- Intensive Care Unit, Anaethesiology, SAMU, Necker Enfants Malades Hospital, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
- IRMES - Institute for Research in Medicine and Epidemiology of Sport, Institut National du Sport, de l'Expertise et de la Performance, Paris, France
- INSERM U-1018, Centre de recherche en Epidémiologie et Santé des Populations, Paris Saclay University, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Charles Vauthier
- Departement de Medecine Générale, Faculté de Médecine - Département du Grand Est de recherche en soins primaires, Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | - Mathias Pessiglione
- Motivation, Brain and Behavior lab, Institut du cerveau et de la moelle épinière Inserm U1127, CNRS U9225, Université Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC-Paris 6), Paris, France
| | - Antonius Wiehler
- Motivation, Brain and Behavior lab, Institut du cerveau et de la moelle épinière Inserm U1127, CNRS U9225, Université Pierre et Marie Curie (UPMC-Paris 6), Paris, France
| | | | | | - Elsa Heyman
- ULR 7369 - Unité de Recherche Pluridisciplinaire Sport, Santé, Société, Université de Lille, LILLE, France
- Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
| | - Mathilde Plard
- Espace et Sociétés UMR 6590 CNRS, Université d'Angers, Angers, France
| | - Philippe Noirez
- Performance Santé Métrologie Société (EA7507), Université Reims Champagne Ardenne, Reims, France
| | | | | | - Anh Phong Nguyen
- La Clinique du Coureur, Lac Beauport, QC, Canada
- Neuromusculoskeletal Laboratory, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Catholic University of Louvain, Louvain La Neuve, Belgium
| | - Joachim Van Cant
- La Clinique du Coureur, Lac Beauport, QC, Canada
- Department of Physical Therapy, Institut Parnasse-ISEI, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | | | - Stéphane Besnard
- Explorations Fonctionnelles Neurologiques, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Caen, Caen, France
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12
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Stäudle B, Seynnes O, Laps G, Brüggemann GP, Albracht K. Altered Gastrocnemius Contractile Behavior in Former Achilles Tendon Rupture Patients During Walking. Front Physiol 2022; 13:792576. [PMID: 35299659 PMCID: PMC8921480 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.792576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) remains associated with functional limitations years after injury. Architectural remodeling of the gastrocnemius medialis (GM) muscle is typically observed in the affected leg and may compensate force deficits caused by a longer tendon. Yet patients seem to retain functional limitations during-low-force-walking gait. To explore the potential limits imposed by the remodeled GM muscle-tendon unit (MTU) on walking gait, we examined the contractile behavior of muscle fascicles during the stance phase. In a cross-sectional design, we studied nine former patients (males; age: 45 ± 9 years; height: 180 ± 7 cm; weight: 83 ± 6 kg) with a history of complete unilateral ATR, approximately 4 years post-surgery. Using ultrasonography, GM tendon morphology, muscle architecture at rest, and fascicular behavior were assessed during walking at 1.5 m⋅s-1 on a treadmill. Walking patterns were recorded with a motion capture system. The unaffected leg served as control. Lower limbs kinematics were largely similar between legs during walking. Typical features of ATR-related MTU remodeling were observed during the stance sub-phases corresponding to series elastic element (SEE) lengthening (energy storage) and SEE shortening (energy release), with shorter GM fascicles (36 and 36%, respectively) and greater pennation angles (8° and 12°, respectively). However, relative to the optimal fascicle length for force production, fascicles operated at comparable length in both legs. Similarly, when expressed relative to optimal fascicle length, fascicle contraction velocity was not different between sides, except at the time-point of peak series elastic element (SEE) length, where it was 39 ± 49% lower in the affected leg. Concomitantly, fascicles rotation during contraction was greater in the affected leg during the whole stance-phase, and architectural gear ratios (AGR) was larger during SEE lengthening. Under the present testing conditions, former ATR patients had recovered a relatively symmetrical walking gait pattern. Differences in seen AGR seem to accommodate the profound changes in MTU architecture, limiting the required fascicle shortening velocity. Overall, the contractile behavior of the GM fascicles does not restrict length- or velocity-dependent force potentials during this locomotor task.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Stäudle
- Faculty of Medical Engineering and Technomathematics, Aachen University of Applied Sciences, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Movement and Neurosciences, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Olivier Seynnes
- Department of Physical Performance, Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Guido Laps
- Orthopädie am Gürzenich, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gert-Peter Brüggemann
- Institute of Biomechanics and Orthopedics, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Kirsten Albracht
- Faculty of Medical Engineering and Technomathematics, Aachen University of Applied Sciences, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Movement and Neurosciences, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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13
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Zhang X, Deng L, Yang Y, Xiao S, Li L, Fu W. Effects of 12-week transition training with minimalist shoes on Achilles tendon loading in habitual rearfoot strike runners. J Biomech 2021; 128:110807. [PMID: 34670150 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2021.110807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Minimalist shod runners have reported greater material and mechanical properties of the Achilles tendon (AT) due to increased loading than runners who wear more cushioned running shoes. This study aimed to investigate the effects of 12-week transition training from conventional shoes to minimalist shoes on AT loading in habitual rearfoot strike runners. Seventeen healthy male habitual rearfoot strikers completed 12-week transition training. They were instructed either to run in minimalist shoes with a forefoot strike pattern (MIN + FFS, n = 9) or run in minimalist shoes but were free to develop their strike pattern (MIN, n = 8). Ultrasound images were captured to determine the cross-sectional area of the AT. Sagittal plane ankle kinematics and ground reaction forces were recorded simultaneously to quantify ankle joint mechanics and AT loading. The strike angle significantly decreased in MIN + FFS after the transition training, indicating a flatter foot at initial contact, whereas no changes were observed in MIN. After training, a significant increase in peak plantarflexion moment was observed for MIN + FFS (15.4%) and MIN (7.6%). Significantly increased peak AT force, peak loading rate and peak stress were observed after training in both groups. Specifically, MIN + FFS had a greater increase in peak AT force (20.3% versus 10.1%), peak loading rate (37.2% versus 25.4%) and peak AT stress (13.7% versus 8.1%) than MIN. Furthermore, for both groups, there were no significant differences in the moment arm and cross-sectional area of the AT observed before and after 12 weeks of training. The results of this study suggested that it was insufficient to promote the morphological adaptation of the AT, but the mechanical loading of the AT was adapted during running after 12-week transition training with minimalist shoes in MIN + FFS and MIN. Preliminary evidence showed that a gradual transition to minimalist shoes with a forefoot strike pattern may be beneficial to the mechanical loading of the AT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xini Zhang
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Liqin Deng
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Yang Yang
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Songlin Xiao
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Lu Li
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China; Institute of Sport and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Schwarzwaldstraße 175, 79117 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Weijie Fu
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China; Key Laboratory of Exercise and Health Sciences of Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China; Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Exercise and Metabolic Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China.
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14
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Bohm S, Mersmann F, Santuz A, Schroll A, Arampatzis A. Muscle-specific economy of force generation and efficiency of work production during human running. eLife 2021; 10:e67182. [PMID: 34473056 PMCID: PMC8412947 DOI: 10.7554/elife.67182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Human running features a spring-like interaction of body and ground, enabled by elastic tendons that store mechanical energy and facilitate muscle operating conditions to minimize the metabolic cost. By experimentally assessing the operating conditions of two important muscles for running, the soleus and vastus lateralis, we investigated physiological mechanisms of muscle work production and muscle force generation. We found that the soleus continuously shortened throughout the stance phase, operating as work generator under conditions that are considered optimal for work production: high force-length potential and high enthalpy efficiency. The vastus lateralis promoted tendon energy storage and contracted nearly isometrically close to optimal length, resulting in a high force-length-velocity potential beneficial for economical force generation. The favorable operating conditions of both muscles were a result of an effective length and velocity-decoupling of fascicles and muscle-tendon unit, mostly due to tendon compliance and, in the soleus, marginally by fascicle rotation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Bohm
- Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Training and Movement SciencesBerlinGermany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, Humboldt-Universität zu BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Falk Mersmann
- Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Training and Movement SciencesBerlinGermany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, Humboldt-Universität zu BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Alessandro Santuz
- Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Training and Movement SciencesBerlinGermany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, Humboldt-Universität zu BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Arno Schroll
- Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Training and Movement SciencesBerlinGermany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, Humboldt-Universität zu BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Adamantios Arampatzis
- Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Department of Training and Movement SciencesBerlinGermany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, Humboldt-Universität zu BerlinBerlinGermany
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15
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Krikelis G, Pain MTG, Furlong LAM. Sources of Error When Measuring Achilles Tendon Mechanics During the Stance Phase of Running. J Biomech Eng 2021; 143:094505. [PMID: 34008851 DOI: 10.1115/1.4051221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, the use of methods to investigate muscle-tendon unit function that combine motion capture with ultrasound (MoCapUS) has increased. Although several limitations and individual errors of these methods have been reported, the total error from all the potential sources together has not been estimated. The aim of this study was to establish the total error in the Achilles tendon (AT) measurements, specifically its length (ATL), strain (ATS), and moment arm (ATMA) acquired with MoCapUS during running. The total error from digitizing, marker movement, ultrasound calibration, and probe rotation errors caused mean ATL error of 4.2 ± 0.6 mm, mean ATMA error of 0.1 ± 0.1 mm, and could potentially alter measured ATS by a mean 2.9 ± 0.2%. Correcting both the calcaneus insertion position (CIP) and properly synchronizing ultrasound and motion capture data caused changes of up to 5.4 ± 1.7 mm in ATL and 11.6 ± 1.3 mm in ATMA. CIP correction and synchronization caused a similar amount of change in ATL, as well as ATS. However, the ATMA change was almost exclusively due to the CIP correction. Finally, if all sources of error were combined, the total ATL error could reach 13.1 mm, the total ATMA error could reach 14.4 mm, and ATS differences could reach up to ± 6.7%. The magnitude of such errors emphasizes the fact that MoCapUS-based AT measurements must be interpreted within the scope of their corresponding errors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgos Krikelis
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough LE11 3TU, UK
| | - Matthew T G Pain
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough LE11 3TU, UK
| | - Laura-Anne M Furlong
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough LE11 3TU, UK
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16
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Waugh CM, Scott A. Substantial Achilles adaptation following strength training has no impact on tendon function during walking. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0255221. [PMID: 34324575 PMCID: PMC8320898 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Tendons are responsive to mechanical loading and their properties are often the target of intervention programs. The tendon's mechanical properties, particularly stiffness, also govern its function, therefore changes to these properties could have substantial influence on energy-saving mechanisms during activities utilizing the stretch-shortening cycle. We investigated Achilles tendon (AT) function in vivo during walking with respect to a training intervention that elicited significant increases in AT stiffness. 14 men and women completed 12-weeks of isometric plantarflexor strength training that increased AT stiffness, measured during isometric MVC, by ~31%. Before and after the intervention, participants walked shod at their preferred velocity on a fully-instrumented treadmill. Movement kinematics, kinetics and displacement of the gastrocnemius medialis muscle-tendon junction were captured synchronously using 3D motion capture and ultrasound imaging, respectively. A MANOVA test was used to examine changes in AT force, stress, strain, stiffness, Young's modulus, hysteresis and strain energy, measured during walking, before and following strength training. All were non-significant for a main effect of time, therefore no follow-up statistical tests were conducted. Changes in joint kinematics, tendon strain, velocity, work and power and muscle activity during the stance phase were assessed with 1D statistical parametric mapping, all of which also demonstrated a lack of change in response to the intervention. This in vivo examination of tendon function in walking provides an important foundation for investigating the functional consequences of training adaptations. We found substantial increases in AT stiffness did not impact on tendon function during walking. AT stiffness measured during walking, however, was unchanged with training, which suggests that increases in stiffness may not be evident across the whole force-elongation relation, a finding which may help explain previously mixed intervention results and guide future investigations in the functional implications of tendon adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. M. Waugh
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - A. Scott
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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17
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Delabastita T, Hollville E, Catteau A, Cortvriendt P, De Groote F, Vanwanseele B. Distal-to-proximal joint mechanics redistribution is a main contributor to reduced walking economy in older adults. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2021; 31:1036-1047. [PMID: 33527504 DOI: 10.1111/sms.13929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Age-related neural and musculoskeletal declines affect mobility and the quality of life of older adults. To date, the mechanisms underlying reduced walking economy in older adults still remain elusive. In this study, we wanted to investigate which biomechanical factors were associated with the higher energy cost of walking in older compared with young adults. Fourteen younger (24 ± 2 years) and fourteen older (74 ± 4 years) adults were tested. Plantarflexor strength and Achilles tendon stiffness were evaluated during a dynamometer test. Medial gastrocnemius fascicle length, ground reaction forces, joint kinematics, and oxygen consumption were measured during walking treadmill at 0.83 and 1.39 m.s-1 . Energy cost of walking, lower-limb joint mechanics, muscle-tendon unit, and tendinous tissues length were calculated. The energy cost of walking was higher at 0.83 m.s-1 (+16%; P = .005) and plantarflexor strength lower (-31%; P = .007) in older adults. Achilles tendon stiffness and medial gastrocnemius fascicle length changes did not differ between older and young adults. The reduction in ankle mechanics was compensated by increases in hip mechanics in older adults during walking. The hip extensor moment was the only significant predictor of the energy cost of walking (adjusted R2 : 0.35-0.38). The higher energy cost in older adults is mainly associated with their distal-to-proximal redistribution of joint mechanics during walking possibly due to plantarflexor weakness. In our study, medial gastrocnemius fascicle and tendinous tissue behavior did not explain the higher energy cost of walking in older compared to young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tijs Delabastita
- Department of Movement Science, Human Movement Biomechanics Research Group, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Enzo Hollville
- Department of Movement Science, Human Movement Biomechanics Research Group, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Andreas Catteau
- Department of Movement Science, Human Movement Biomechanics Research Group, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Philip Cortvriendt
- Department of Movement Science, Human Movement Biomechanics Research Group, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Friedl De Groote
- Department of Movement Science, Human Movement Biomechanics Research Group, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Benedicte Vanwanseele
- Department of Movement Science, Human Movement Biomechanics Research Group, Leuven, Belgium
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18
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Bohm S, Mersmann F, Santuz A, Arampatzis A. Enthalpy efficiency of the soleus muscle contributes to improvements in running economy. Proc Biol Sci 2021; 288:20202784. [PMID: 33499791 PMCID: PMC7893283 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2020.2784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
During human running, the soleus, as the main plantar flexor muscle, generates the majority of the mechanical work through active shortening. The fraction of chemical energy that is converted into muscular work (enthalpy efficiency) depends on the muscle shortening velocity. Here, we investigated the soleus muscle fascicle behaviour during running with respect to the enthalpy efficiency as a mechanism that could contribute to improvements in running economy after exercise-induced increases of plantar flexor strength and Achilles tendon (AT) stiffness. Using a controlled longitudinal study design (n = 23) featuring a specific 14-week muscle-tendon training, increases in muscle strength (10%) and tendon stiffness (31%) and reduced metabolic cost of running (4%) were found only in the intervention group (n = 13, p < 0.05). Following training, the soleus fascicles operated at higher enthalpy efficiency during the phase of muscle-tendon unit (MTU) lengthening (15%) and in average over stance (7%, p < 0.05). Thus, improvements in energetic cost following increases in plantar flexor strength and AT stiffness seem attributed to increased enthalpy efficiency of the operating soleus muscle. The results further imply that the soleus energy production in the first part of stance, when the MTU is lengthening, may be crucial for the overall metabolic energy cost of running.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Bohm
- Department of Training and Movement Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Philippstr. 13, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Falk Mersmann
- Department of Training and Movement Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Philippstr. 13, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alessandro Santuz
- Department of Training and Movement Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Philippstr. 13, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Adamantios Arampatzis
- Department of Training and Movement Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Philippstr. 13, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin School of Movement Science, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Hösl M, Kruse A, Tilp M, Svehlik M, Böhm H, Zehentbauer A, Arampatzis A. Impact of Altered Gastrocnemius Morphometrics and Fascicle Behavior on Walking Patterns in Children With Spastic Cerebral Palsy. Front Physiol 2020; 11:518134. [PMID: 33178029 PMCID: PMC7597072 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.518134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spastic cerebral palsy (SCP) affects neural control, deteriorates muscle morphometrics, and may progressively impair functional walking ability. Upon passive testing, gastrocnemius medialis (GM) muscle bellies or fascicles are typically shorter, thinner, and less extensible. Relationships between muscle and gait parameters might help to understand gait pathology and pathogenesis of spastic muscles. The current aim was to link resting and dynamic GM morphometrics and contractile fascicle behavior (both excursion and velocity) during walking to determinants of gait. We explored the associations between gait variables and ultrasonography of the GM muscle belly captured during rest and during gait in children with SCP [n = 15, gross motor function classification system (GMFCS) levels I and II, age: 7–16 years] and age-matched healthy peers (n = 17). The SCP children’s plantar flexors were 27% weaker. They walked 12% slower with more knee flexion produced 42% less peak ankle push-off power (all p < 0.05) and 7/15 landed on their forefoot. During the stance phase, fascicles in SCP on average operated on 9% shorter length (normalized to rest length) and displayed less and slower fascicle shortening (37 and 30.6%, respectively) during push-off (all p ≤ 0.024). Correlation analyses in SCP patients revealed that (1) longer-resting fascicles and thicker muscle bellies are positively correlated with walking speed and negatively to knee flexion (r = 0.60–0.69, p < 0.0127) but not to better ankle kinematics; (2) reduced muscle strength was associated with the extent of eccentric fascicle excursion (r = −0.57, p = 0.015); and (3) a shorter operating length of the fascicles was correlated with push-off power (r = −0.58, p = 0.013). Only in controls, a correlation (r = 0.61, p = 0.0054) between slower fascicle shortening velocity and push-off power was found. Our results indicate that a thicker gastrocnemius muscle belly and longer gastrocnemius muscle fascicles may be reasonable morphometric properties that should be targeted in interventions for individuals with SCP, since GM muscle atrophy may be related to decreases in walking speed and undesired knee flexion during gait. Furthermore, children with SCP and weaker gastrocnemius muscle may be more susceptible to chronic eccentric muscle overloading. The relationship between shorter operating length of the fascicles and push-off power may further support the idea of a compensation mechanism for the longer sarcomeres found in children with SCP. Nevertheless, more studies are needed to support our explorative findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Hösl
- Gait and Motion Analysis Laboratory, Schön Klinik Vogtareuth, Vogtareuth, Germany
| | - Annika Kruse
- Department of Biomechanics, Movement and Training Sciences, Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Markus Tilp
- Department of Biomechanics, Movement and Training Sciences, Institute of Human Movement Science, Sport and Health, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Martin Svehlik
- Paediatric Orthopaedics Unit, Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Harald Böhm
- Gait Laboratory, Orthopedic Children's Hospital Aschau, Aschau im Chiemgau, Germany
| | - Antonia Zehentbauer
- Human Movement Science, Faculty of Sports Science, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Adamantios Arampatzis
- Department of Training and Movement Sciences, Humboldt University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin School of Movement Science, Humboldt University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Bissas A, Havenetidis K, Walker J, Hanley B, Nicholson G, Metaxas T, Christoulas K, Cronin NJ. Muscle-tendon morphology and function following long-term exposure to repeated and strenuous mechanical loading. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2020; 30:1151-1162. [PMID: 32246562 DOI: 10.1111/sms.13669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
We mapped structural and functional characteristics of muscle-tendon units in a population exposed to very long-term routine overloading. Twenty-eight military academy cadets (age = 21.00 ± 1.1 years; height = 176.1 ± 4.8 cm; mass = 73.8 ± 7.0 kg) exposed for over 24 months to repetitive overloading were profiled via ultrasonography with a senior subgroup of them (n = 11; age = 21.4 ± 1.0 years; height = 176.5 ± 4.8 cm; mass = 71.4 ± 6.6 kg) also tested while walking and marching on a treadmill. A group of eleven ethnicity- and age-matched civilians (age = 21.6 ± 0.7 years; height = 176.8 ± 4.3 cm; mass = 74.6 ± 5.6 kg) was also profiled and tested. Cadets and civilians exhibited similar morphology (muscle and tendon thickness and cross-sectional area, pennation angle, fascicle length) in 26 out of 29 sites including the Achilles tendon. However, patellar tendon thickness along the entire tendon was greater (P < .05) by a mean of 16% for the senior cadets compared with civilians. Dynamically, cadets showed significantly smaller ranges of fascicle length change and lower shortening velocity in medial gastrocnemius during walking (44.0% and 47.6%, P < .05-.01) and marching (27.5% and 34.3%, P < .05-.01) than civilians. Furthermore, cadets showed lower normalized soleus electrical activity during walking (22.7%, P < .05) and marching (27.0%, P < .05). Therefore, 24-36 months of continuous overloading, primarily occurring under aerobic conditions, leads to more efficient neural and mechanical behavior in the triceps surae complex, without any major macroscopic alterations in key anatomical structures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Josh Walker
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Brian Hanley
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Thomas Metaxas
- Laboratory of Evaluation of Human Biological Performance, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Kosmas Christoulas
- Laboratory of Evaluation of Human Biological Performance, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Neil J Cronin
- Neuromuscular Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland.,Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
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