Downloaded 70 times
Uploaded byCharles Nyasa
Achilles tendinopathy, overview & biomechanical causes
The document discusses achilles tendinopathy, a condition characterized by pain, swelling, and weakness of the achilles tendon due to micro-injuries. It explains the anatomy and biomechanics of the achilles tendon, emphasizing that the condition results from the tendon’s inability to adapt to strain, leading to degeneration. Various biomechanical causes and factors contributing to tendon overload are also outlined.
More Related Content
Similar to Achilles tendinopathy, overview & biomechanical causes
Achilles tendinopathy, overview & biomechanical causes
- 1. ACHILLES TENDINOPATHY Overview andBiomechanical causes By: Charles Nyasa Elizabeth Mchakama Sangwani Ngwira Hannah Mphaka Grace Mwale Burnet Makaika & Mathews Rodgers Phiri
- 2. Anatomy: Achilles Tendon •The confluence of gastrocnemius and soleus muscles • It inserts on the posterior surface of the calcaneus • Transmits force generated by these plantaflexors
- 3. Biomechanics of Achillestendon • A tendon is tough band of fibrous connective tissue • Achilles tendon is not enclosed in a true synovial sheath - But rather a paratendon – richly vascularized • however, towards its distal end the tendon begins to rotate - More marked in the distal most 5-6 cm • Angiography reveals a zone of hypovascularity 2-7cm proximal to tendon insertion.
- 4. Achilles Tendinopathy • Acondition that causes pain, swelling, stiffness and weakness of the Achilles tendon - Caused by tiny injuries to the Achilles tendon • Originally labelled Achilles tendinitis - Overuse degeneration rather than inflammation revealed
- 5. Biomechanical causes • Atendinopathy occurs when the tendon is unable to adapt to the strain being placed on it. • This leads to microdamage within the tendon fibers resulting in tendon attempting to heal • Poor healing mechanism - hence damage builds up due to repetitive strain • Causing degeneration of tendon body and/or inflammation of the sheath.
- 6. Load – DeformationCurve Causes explained: • Repetitive overload beyond physiological threshold e.g. Vigorous P.A • Frequent microtrauma within physiological limits e.g. Overweight • Non-uniform stress within tendon due to abnormal load conc. and friction btwn fibrils, e.g. weak/tight calf muscle, foot joints stiffness
- 7.
Editor's Notes
- #4 But rather a paratendon – composed of a single cell layer
- #7 Tendons transmit force generated by muscle to bone. Additionally, they act as a buffer by absorbing external forces to limit muscle damage—a function that demands mechanical strength, flexibility and elasticity.5 As collagen fibres deform, they respond linearly to increasing tendon loads.8 The configuration is initially lost when the stretch exceeds 2% but is regained if the strain placed on the tendon remains at less than 4%; if strain exceeds 8% macroscopic rupture will occur.9,10 ………….foot joint stiffness and poor core stability around the hip/knee.