Activity related differences in the thickness of achilles tendon among four different occupational groups in Nigeria: an ultrasound based study

Abstract

Background: The degree of physical activity may induce strain and stress on the Achilles tendon because of its role in the elastic mechanics of gait. Material &Methods: The study was carried out to determine the effect of occupation-related physical activity on the thickness of the Achilles tendon. The effect of occupation- related physical activity on the thickness of the Achilles tendon in three phases (ATT at Normal phase, ATT at Dorsiflexed phase and ATT at Plantarflexed phase) was assessed, by ultrasound, among four classes of occupations- Labourers/farmers, Dancers, Athletes and a less active class (control group). Results: Results show that the less active (control group) had the least value for ATT (normal) (3.31±0.50mm) being almost at par with those of the dancers. The athletes and labourers/farmers had significantly higher values than the control (P=0.000 and 0.007 respectively). Conclusion: Our findings have conclusively established that occupation-related prolonged physical activity induces thickening of the Achilles tendon. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v11i2.9666 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 11 No. 02 April 2012: 103-111

Effects of physical characteristics, exercise and smoking on morphometry of human Achilles tendon: an ultrasound study

“…There was a significant difference for Achilles tendon measurements between those engaged in sportive activities versus those who were sedentary. Our findings are consistent with those of Egwu et al, [25] Mathieson et al [26] and Civeira et al [27] Microtears and degeneration occurs in tendons due to overuse and exposure to repetitive trauma. Following this, a repair process starts.…”

Activity related differences in the thickness of heel pad of some occupational groups in Nigeria: An imaging based study

“…Egwu et al, 1,4 also reported activity related differences in the thickness of the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon respectively which are other soft tissues associated with the bipedalic dynamics of human locomotion. They further stated that the difference was connected with the occupation of the subjects.…”

Normal Thickness of the Tendo Calcaneus (TCT) in an Adult Nigerian Population: An Imaging Based Normographic Study

“…The gastrocnemus muscle having two bellies arising from the posterior surface of the femoral condyles and the soleus originates from the proximal end of the tibia and fibula and the intervening tendinous arch. The aponeuroses of the three muscles join to form the Tendo calcaneus, which transmits loads generated by by these muscle onto the calcaneus [6]; thus having direct impact on the biomechanics of the foot [7] while also acting as a mechanical buffer for the muscles [8].…”