1
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Scott I, Malliaras P, Tardioli A, Hales S, Morrissey D, Migliorini F, Maffulli N. Achilles tendon thickness reduces immediately after a marathon. J Orthop Surg Res 2022; 17:562. [PMID: 36564836 PMCID: PMC9783442 DOI: 10.1186/s13018-022-03448-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of the present investigation was to evaluate the immediate effect of running a marathon on Achilles tendon anteroposterior thickness. METHODS In 25 runners who took part in the London marathon, ultrasonography was used to measure the Achilles tendon thickness pre- and immediately post-marathon and to identify any structural abnormalities indicating tendinopathy. Pain was recorded using a numerical rating scale at baseline and post-marathon. Twenty-one participants were included in the final analysis. RESULTS Running a marathon resulted in a significant decrease (- 13%, p < 0.01) in anteroposterior diameter of the Achilles tendon immediately following the marathon. There was no change in the proportion of Achilles tendons with structural abnormalities (34%) or pain (12%) following the marathon (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION Running a marathon resulted in an immediate reduction in anteroposterior diameter of the Achilles tendon. This finding may have implications for injury prevention and recovery following a marathon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Scott
- grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Department of Mathematics, University of Oxford, Oxford, England
| | - Peter Malliaras
- grid.4868.20000 0001 2171 1133Centre for Sports and Exercise Medicine, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Mile End Hospital, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4DG England ,grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Department of Physiotherapy, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Alex Tardioli
- grid.4868.20000 0001 2171 1133Centre for Sports and Exercise Medicine, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Mile End Hospital, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4DG England
| | - Sarah Hales
- grid.4868.20000 0001 2171 1133Centre for Sports and Exercise Medicine, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Mile End Hospital, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4DG England
| | - Dylan Morrissey
- grid.4868.20000 0001 2171 1133Centre for Sports and Exercise Medicine, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Mile End Hospital, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4DG England
| | - Filippo Migliorini
- grid.412301.50000 0000 8653 1507Department of Orthopaedic, Trauma, and Reconstructive Surgery, RWTH University Hospital, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Nicola Maffulli
- grid.4868.20000 0001 2171 1133Centre for Sports and Exercise Medicine, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Mile End Hospital, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4DG England ,grid.11780.3f0000 0004 1937 0335Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, SA Italy ,grid.9757.c0000 0004 0415 6205Faculty of Medicine, School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Keele University, Stoke on Trent, ST4 7QB England
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Martínez F, Abián P, Jiménez F, Abián-Vicén J. The Effects of Eccentric Contraction Execution Time on the Properties of the Patellar Tendon. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159296. [PMID: 35954651 PMCID: PMC9367933 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of eccentric contraction execution time on the morphological and elastic properties of the patellar tendon (PT) in a six-week, single-leg decline squat (SLDS) exercise training program. In addition, the effects of a six-week detraining period on the same variables were evaluated. Fifty participants were randomized into the control group (CG; n = 15), experimental group 1 (EG6s; n = 17; eccentric contraction execution time = 6 s) and experimental group 2 (EG3s; n = 18; eccentric contraction execution time = 3 s). The thickness and elastographic index (EI) in different regions of interest (ROIs) in the PT were measured after 6 weeks of eccentric training using the single-leg decline squat exercise (three sessions per week, 80% of the eccentric one-repetition maximum) and after 6 weeks of detraining. There was an increase in the thickness of the PT in the different ROIs analyzed in both experimental groups at the end of the training period. Especially worth noting was the increase in the thickness of the PT at the proximal level in EG3s (p = 0.001), and the increase at the distal level in EG6s (p = 0.001). On the other hand, there was a reduction in EI in EG6S at the end of the intervention program (p = 0.021), and both experimental groups increased EI in the three regions of interest analyzed after the detraining period (p < 0.01). In conclusion, the execution time of the eccentric contraction in the SLDS exercise determines the anatomical level of the morphological adaptations in the PT. These morphological adaptations are lost after 6 weeks of detraining, producing an increase in tendon stiffness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Martínez
- Performance and Sport Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071 Toledo, Spain; (F.M.); (F.J.)
| | - Pablo Abián
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Comillas Pontifical University, 28049 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Fernando Jiménez
- Performance and Sport Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071 Toledo, Spain; (F.M.); (F.J.)
| | - Javier Abián-Vicén
- Performance and Sport Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071 Toledo, Spain; (F.M.); (F.J.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-925268800 (ext. 5522)
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3
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Merza EY, Pearson SJ, Lichtwark GA, Malliaras P. The acute effects of higher versus lower load duration and intensity on morphological and mechanical properties of the healthy Achilles tendon: a randomized crossover trial. J Exp Biol 2022; 225:275126. [PMID: 35470387 PMCID: PMC9167578 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.243741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The Achilles tendon (AT) exhibits volume changes related to fluid flow under acute load which may be linked to changes in stiffness. Fluid flow provides a mechanical signal for cellular activity and may be one mechanism that facilitates tendon adaptation. This study aimed to investigate whether isometric intervention involving a high level of load duration and intensity could maximize the immediate reduction in AT volume and stiffness compared with interventions involving a lower level of load duration and intensity. Sixteen healthy participants (12 males, 4 females; age 24.4±9.4 years, body mass 70.9±16.1 kg, height 1.7±0.1 m) performed three isometric interventions of varying levels of load duration (2 s and 8 s) and intensity (35% and 75% maximal voluntary isometric contraction) over a 3 week period. Freehand 3D ultrasound was used to measure free AT volume (at rest) and length (at 35%, 55% and 75% of maximum plantarflexion force) pre- and post-interventions. The slope of the force–elongation curve over these force levels represented individual stiffness (N mm−1). Large reductions in free AT volume and stiffness resulted in response to long-duration high-intensity loading whilst less reduction was produced with a lower load intensity. In contrast, no change in free AT volume and a small increase in AT stiffness occurred with lower load duration. These findings suggest that the applied load on the AT must be heavy and sustained for a long duration to maximize immediate volume reduction, which might be an acute response that enables optimal long-term tendon adaptation via mechanotransduction pathways. Summary: High levels of load duration and intensity have the greatest acute effect on the free Achilles tendon volume and stiffness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman Y Merza
- Department of physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science, Monash University, Frankston Vic 3199, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Stephen J Pearson
- Centre for Health, Sport and Rehabilitation Sciences Research, University of Salford, Greater Manchester, M5 4WT, UK
| | - Glen A Lichtwark
- Centre for Sensorimotor Performance, School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Peter Malliaras
- Department of physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science, Monash University, Frankston Vic 3199, Melbourne, Australia
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4
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Malmgaard-Clausen NM, Tran P, Svensson RB, Hansen P, Nybing JD, Magnusson SP, Kjaer M. Magnetic Resonance T 2 * Is Increased in Patients With Early-Stage Achilles and Patellar Tendinopathy. J Magn Reson Imaging 2021; 54:832-839. [PMID: 33719139 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.27600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND T2 * mapping has proven useful in tendon research and may have the ability to detect subtle changes at an early stage of tendinopathy. PURPOSE To investigate the difference in T2 * between patients with early tendinopathy and healthy controls, and to investigate the relationship between T2 * and clinical outcomes, tendon size, and mechanical properties. STUDY TYPE Prospective cross-sectional. SUBJECTS Sixty-five patients with early tendinopathy and 25 healthy controls. FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE Three Tesla, ultrashort time to echo magnetic resonance imaging. ASSESSMENT Tendon T2 * was quantified using a monoexponential fitting algorithm. Clinical symptoms were evaluated using the Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment-Achilles/Patella (VISA-A/VISA-P). In vivo mechanical properties were measured using an ultrasound-based method that determined force and deformation simultaneously in tendons of patellar tendinopathy patients. STATISTICAL TESTS A generalized linear model adjusted for age was applied to investigate the difference between patients and controls. In the two patient groups, linear regressions were applied to investigate the association between T2 * and tendon size, clinical outcomes, and biomechanical properties. RESULTS There was a significant difference in T2 * between patients and healthy controls (204.8 [95% CI: 44.5-365.0] μsec, P < 0.05). There was a positive correlation between tendon size and T2 * for both Achilles (r = 0.72; P < 0.05) and patellar tendons (r = 0.53; P < 0.05). There was no significant correlation between VISA-A and T2 * (r = -0.2; P = 0.17) or VISA-P and T2 * (r = -0.5; P = 0.0504). Lastly, there was a negative correlation between modulus and T2 * (r = -0.51; P < 0.05). DATA CONCLUSIONS T2 * mapping can detect subtle structural changes that translate to altered mechanical properties in early-phase tendinopathy. However, T2 * did not correlate with clinical scores in patients with early-phase Achilles and patellar tendinopathy. Thus, T2 * mapping may serve as a tool for early detection of structural changes in tendinopathy but does not necessarily describe the clinical severity of disease. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 1 TECHNICAL EFFICACY STAGE: 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaj M Malmgaard-Clausen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Tran
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rene B Svensson
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Philip Hansen
- Department of Radiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Janus D Nybing
- Department of Radiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stig Peter Magnusson
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael Kjaer
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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5
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Agergaard AS, Malmgaard-Clausen NM, Svensson RB, Nybing JD, Boesen M, Kjaer M, Magnusson SP, Hansen P. UTE T2* mapping of tendinopathic patellar tendons: an MRI reproducibility study. Acta Radiol 2021; 62:215-224. [PMID: 32340475 DOI: 10.1177/0284185120918807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is currently a lack of imaging modalities that can be used as a sensitive measure in tendinopathy. Recent findings suggest the applicability of ultra-short echo time (UTE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) T2* mapping in tendons, but the reproducibility remains unknown. PURPOSE To evaluate test-retest reproducibility of UTE MRI T2* mapping of tendinopathic patellar tendons and to evaluate the intra- and inter-observer reproducibility of the measurement. MATERIAL AND METHODS Fifteen patients with chronic patellar tendinopathy were evaluated with UTE MRI twice in a 3.0-T scanner on the same day. Manual segmentation of the patellar tendon was performed by two blinded investigators and automated T2*map reconstruction was performed in custom-made software. RESULTS There was a significant and numerically small difference in test-retest T2* values (T2*meandiff = 0.06 ± 0.07 ms ≈ 3.7%; P = 0.006) with an ICC = 0.91 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.58-0.98; typical error of 3.0%). The intra- and inter-observer reproducibility showed no significant bias (P = 0.493 and P = 0.052), and generally substantial reproducibility was demonstrated for T2* (intra-observer ICC = 0.99; 95% CI 0.98-1.00 and inter-observer ICC = 0.99; 95% CI 0.96-1.00, and typical error 1.3% and 1.3%, respectively). CONCLUSION These data demonstrate a small bias between repeated measurements for UTE T2*, but with a very low associated mean difference (3.7%) between the two tests. The high ICC values and low typical error % demonstrate reproducibility of repeated T2*-mapping sessions. Further, the method showed substantial intra- and inter-observer reproducibility for T2* values proving feasibility for use of UTE T2* mapping in research and clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Sofie Agergaard
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Healthy Aging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nikolaj M Malmgaard-Clausen
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Healthy Aging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rene B Svensson
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Healthy Aging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Janus D Nybing
- Department of Radiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mikael Boesen
- Department of Radiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Parker Institute, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael Kjaer
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Healthy Aging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - S. Peter Magnusson
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Healthy Aging, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Philip Hansen
- Department of Radiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
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6
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Merza E, Pearson S, Lichtwark G, Ollason M, Malliaras P. Immediate and long-term effects of mechanical loading on Achilles tendon volume: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Biomech 2021; 118:110289. [PMID: 33556887 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2021.110289] [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: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The Achilles tendon (AT) may experience changes in dimensions related to fluid flow under load. The extent to which fluid flow involves redistribution within or flow out of the tendon is not known and could be determined by investigating volume changes. This study aimed to synthesize data on immediate and long-term effects of loading on tendon volume among people with a healthy AT and midportion Achilles tendinopathy (MAT). A secondary aim was to synthesise data from the included studies investigating parallel change in cross-sectional area and length. Systematic electronic search was performed in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, AMED, and Scopus from inception until May 2020. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) were calculated for intervention-induced changes from baseline for all outcomes. Methodological quality was assessed using modified version of Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS). Twelve studies were included in meta-analysis. For healthy AT, there were negligible to small changes in volume following cross-country running (-0.33 [95% CI = -1.11 to 0.45] (P = 0.41)) and isometric exercise (0.01 [95% CI = -0.54 to 0.55] (P = 0.98)) and a large increase at the short-term with 12-week isometric protocol (0.88 [95% CI = -0.10 to1.86] (P = 0.08)). For MAT, there was an immediate large reduction in volume with isometric exercise (-1.24 [95% CI = -1.93 to -0.55] (P = 0.0004)), small increase with eccentric exercise (0.41 [95% CI = -0.18 to 1.01](P = 0.18)) and small reduction at the short-term with long-term interventions (-0.46 [95% CI = -0.87 to -0.05] (P = 0.03)). This meta-analysis suggests that healthy AT remain isovolumetric with acute interventions while MAT exhibit immediate and short-term volume reductions in response to different interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman Merza
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science, Monash University, Frankston, Vic 3199, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Stephen Pearson
- Centre for Health, Sport and Rehabilitation Sciences Research, University of Salford, Greater Manchester M5 4WT, United Kingdom.
| | - Glen Lichtwark
- Centre for Sensorimotor Performance, School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - Meg Ollason
- Department of Physiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Vic 3800, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Peter Malliaras
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science, Monash University, Frankston, Vic 3199, Melbourne, Australia.
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7
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Changes on Tendon Stiffness and Clinical Outcomes in Athletes Are Associated With Patellar Tendinopathy After Eccentric Exercise. Clin J Sport Med 2020; 30:25-32. [PMID: 31855909 DOI: 10.1097/jsm.0000000000000562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Eccentric exercise is commonly used as a form of loading exercise for individuals with patellar tendinopathy. This study investigated the change of mechanical properties and clinical outcomes and their interrelationships after a 12-week single-legged decline-board exercise with and without extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT). DESIGN Randomized controlled trial. SETTING Outpatient clinic of a university. PARTICIPANTS Thirty-four male in-season athletes with patellar tendinopathy for more than 3 months were randomized into exercise and combined groups. INTERVENTIONS The exercise group received a 12-week single-legged decline-squat exercise, and the combined group performed an identical exercise program in addition to a weekly session of ESWT in the initial 6 weeks. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Tendon stiffness and strain were examined using ultrasonography and dynamometry. Visual analog scale and Victoria Institute of Sports Assessment-patella (VISA-p) score were used to assess pain and dysfunction. These parameters were measured at preintervention and postintervention. RESULTS Significant time effect but no significant group effect on the outcome measures; significant reduction in tendon stiffness (P = 0.02) and increase in tendon strain (P = 0.00); and reduction of intensity of pain (P = 0.00) and dysfunction (P = 0.00) were observed. Significant correlations between changes in tendon stiffness and VISA-p score (ρ = -0.58, P = 0.05); alteration in tendon strain, pain intensity (ρ = -0.63, P = 0.03); and VISA-p score (ρ = 0.60, P = 0.04) were detected after the exercise program. CONCLUSIONS Eccentric exercise-induced modulation on tendon mechanical properties and clinical symptoms are associated in athletes with patellar tendinopathy.
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8
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Stenroth L, Sefa S, Arokoski J, Töyräs J. Does Magnetic Resonance Imaging Provide Superior Reliability for Achilles and Patellar Tendon Cross-Sectional Area Measurements Compared with Ultrasound Imaging? ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2019; 45:3186-3198. [PMID: 31493954 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2019.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Revised: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the reliability of Achilles and patellar tendon cross-sectional area (CSA) measurement using ultrasound imaging (USI) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Fifteen healthy adults were imaged twice on two occasions, interrupted by a tendon loading protocol. Tendon CSA segmentations were conducted by an experienced and an inexperienced rater blinded to information regarding subject, session and loading status. USI provided good test-retest reliability (intra-class correlation coefficient [ICC] 2,1 > 0.85, standard error of measurement [SEM] 5%-6%), while with MRI it was excellent (ICC 2,1 > 0.92, SEM 4%) for the experienced rater. This study suggests that MRI provides superior reliability for tendon CSA measurements compared with USI. However, the difference in reliability between the methods was small, and the results were inconclusive regarding objectivity and sensitivity to change when assessed based on the effect of loading. We concluded that both methods can be used for reliable CSA measurements of the Achilles and patellar tendons when using a highly standardized measurement protocol and when conducted by an experienced rater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauri Stenroth
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Sandra Sefa
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jari Arokoski
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Juha Töyräs
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland; Diagnostic Imaging Center, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland; School of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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9
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Thygesen MM, Jordt I, Kristensen MS, Fisker FY, Kildegaard S, Pfeiffer-Jensen M. High-Intensity Resistance Training Does Not Produce Immediate Ultrasonographic Changes in Muscle Tendons. Orthop J Sports Med 2019; 7:2325967118821604. [PMID: 30729146 PMCID: PMC6350153 DOI: 10.1177/2325967118821604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Chronic overload injuries to tendons can be visualized using ultrasonography,
with characteristics such as tendon thickening and darkening. Purpose: To investigate whether these characteristics are evident in the patellar and
Achilles tendons immediately after 1 session of high-intensity resistance
training. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: A total of 18 volunteers were randomized to an experimental group (n = 10)
and a sham group (n = 8). The experimental group performed 5 circuits at
maximum effort consisting of 5 weighted front squats, 10 box jumps (60/50
cm), and 15 double-under jump-rope jumps. The sham group performed a similar
circuit consisting of 5 weighted shoulder presses, 10 push-ups, and 15
weighted biceps curls. Ultrasonograms were obtained before and after
exercise, for a total of 30 minutes at intervals of 2.5 minutes for the
first 10 minutes and 5 minutes for the remaining time. Tendon thickness and
tendon matrix signals were measured. Statistics were performed using
repeated-measures mixed analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: Tendon thickness did not increase significantly over 30 minutes after both
circuits. The mean grayscale value for the patellar and Achilles tendons
increased for both the experimental and the sham groups. ANOVA showed that
the experimental group was not a significant explanatory variable; however,
the increased work of both groups was. A post hoc analysis found that the
maximum increase in the tendon signal was a grayscale value of 10.8 for the
patellar tendon (99.4% CI, 3.7-17.9; P = .002). Conclusion: This trial failed to reproduce an earlier study in which tendon thickness
increased after high-intensity training. The tendons produced a hyperechoic
signal after high-intensity resistance training, regardless of loading to
the tendon. Chronic overload characteristics on ultrasonography were not
evident immediately after acute loading of tendons. Clinical Relevance: There is a need for prognostic and diagnostic markers of tendinopathy
especially because of the protracted course of subclinical development of an
injury. This study assessed whether clinical findings for a chronic overload
injury can be detected during acute overloading.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathias Møller Thygesen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Comparative Medicine Laboratory, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ida Jordt
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Filip Yang Fisker
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Sofie Kildegaard
- Department of Rheumatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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10
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Nuri L, Obst SJ, Newsham-West R, Barrett RS. Recovery of human Achilles tendon three-dimensional deformation following conditioning. J Sci Med Sport 2018; 21:473-478. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2017.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2017] [Revised: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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11
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Nuri L, Obst SJ, Newsham-West R, Barrett RS. The tendinopathic Achilles tendon does not remain iso-volumetric upon repeated loading: insights from 3D ultrasound. J Exp Biol 2017; 220:3053-3061. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.159764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy (MAT) alters the normal three-dimensional (3D) morphology of the Achilles tendon (AT) at rest and under a single tensile load. However, how MAT changes the 3D morphology of AT during repeated loading remains unclear. This study compared the AT longitudinal, transverse and volume strains during repeated loading in MAT with those of the contralateral tendon in people with unilateral MAT. Ten adults with unilateral MAT performed 10 successive 25 second submaximal (50%) voluntary isometric plantarflexion contractions with both legs. Freehand 3D ultrasound scans were recorded and used to measure whole AT, free AT, and proximal AT longitudinal strains and free AT cross-sectional area (CSA) and volume strains. The free AT experienced higher longitudinal and CSA strain and reached steady state following a greater number of contractions (5 contractions) in MAT compared to the contralateral tendon (3 contractions). Further, free tendon CSA and volume strained more in MAT than contralateral tendon from the first contraction, whereas free AT longitudinal strain was not greater than the contralateral tendon until the fourth contraction. Volume loss from the tendon core therefore preceded the greater longitudinal strain in MAT. Overall, these findings suggest that the tendinopathic free AT experiences an exaggerated longitudinal and transverse strain response under repeated loading that is underpinned by an altered interaction between solid and fluid tendon matrix components. These alterations are indicative of accentuated poroelasticity and an altered local stress-strain environment within the tendinopathic free tendon matrix, which could affect tendon remodelling via mechanobiological pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Nuri
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Steven J. Obst
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia
| | - Richard Newsham-West
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Rod S. Barrett
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
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Nuri L, Obst SJ, Newsham-West R, Barrett RS. Regional three-dimensional deformation of human Achilles tendon during conditioning. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2016; 27:1263-1272. [DOI: 10.1111/sms.12742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- L. Nuri
- School of Allied Health Sciences; Menzies Health Institute Queensland; Griffith University; Gold Coast Queensland Australia
| | - S. J. Obst
- School of Allied Health Sciences; Menzies Health Institute Queensland; Griffith University; Gold Coast Queensland Australia
| | - R. Newsham-West
- School of Allied Health Sciences; Menzies Health Institute Queensland; Griffith University; Gold Coast Queensland Australia
| | - R. S. Barrett
- School of Allied Health Sciences; Menzies Health Institute Queensland; Griffith University; Gold Coast Queensland Australia
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