Achilles tendon stiffness is unchanged one hour after a marathon

• DOI: 10.1242/jeb.068874
• Publication Date: 2012-09-27T12:13:06Z
• Authors: Jussi Peltonen; Neil J. Cronin; Lauri Stenroth; Taija Finni; Janne Avela
• Keywords: Treadmill; Running economy

SUMMARY Overuse-induced injuries have been proposed as a predisposing factor for Achilles tendon (AT) ruptures. If tendons can be overloaded, their mechanical properties should change during exercise. Because there data are lacking on the effects of single bout long-lasting exercise AT properties, present study measured stiffness before and after marathon. was determined slope force–elongation curve between 10 80% maximum voluntary force. characteristics were in an ankle dynamometer using simultaneous motion-capture-assisted ultrasonography. Oxygen consumption kinematics also treadmill at marathon pace. All measurements performed did not significantly from pre-race value 197±62 N mm−1 (mean ± s.d.) to post-race 206±59 (N=12, P=0.312). increased race by 7±10% (P<0.05) kinematic revealed that nine out 12 subjects, induced foot strike technique. The physically active individuals seems able resist changes under physiological stress. We therefore suggest natural loading, like running, may overstress or predispose it injury. In addition, decreased running economy, well altered technique, probably attributable muscle fatigue.