Work

Running-Related Achilles Tendon Injury: A Prospective Biomechanical Study in Recreational Runners

Year: 2023

Type: article

Abstract: There are relatively few running studies that have attempted to prospectively identify biomechanical risk factors associated with Achilles tendon (AT) injuries. Therefore, the aim was to prospectively determine potential running biomechanical risk factors associated with the development of AT injuries in recreational, healthy runners. At study entry, 108 participants completed a set of questionnaires. They underwent an analysis of their running biomechanics at self-selected running speed. The incidence of AT running-related injuries (RRI) was assessed after 1-year using a weekly questionnaire standardized for RRI. Potential biomechanical risk factors for the development of AT RRI injury were identified using multivariable logistic regression. Of the 103 participants, 25% of the sample (15 males and 11 females) reported an AT RRI on the right lower limb during the 1-year evaluation period. A more flexed knee at initial contact (odds ratio = 1.146, P = .034) and at the midstance phase (odds ratio = 1.143, P = .037) were significant predictors for developing AT RRI. The results suggested that a 1-degree increase in knee flexion at initial contact and midstance was associated with a 15% increase in the risk of an AT RRI, thus causing a limitation of training or a stoppage of running in runners.

Source: Journal of Applied Biomechanics

DOI: 10.1123/jab.2022-0221

Authors: Jiri Skypala, Joseph Hamill, Michal Sebera, Steriani Elavsky, Andrea Monte, Daniel Jandacka

Institutions: University of Ostrava, University of Massachusetts Amherst, University of Verona

Language: English

Topic: Lower Extremity Biomechanics and Pathologies

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: Ostravská Univerzita v Ostravě