Persistent functional loss following ruptured Achilles tendon is associated with reduced gastrocnemius muscle fascicle length, elongated gastrocnemius and soleus tendon, and reduced muscle cross-sectional area

Abstract

We examined muscle function, muscle architecture, and tendon length bilaterally in persons who experience a functional deficit 2 years after an Achilles tendon rupture. Eleven persons were investigated on the injured compared with the uninjured side 47 ± 7 months (mean ± SD) after a tendon rupture. Heel-rise data, plantar flexion strength, tendon resting angle 3D MRI-determined tendon length and muscle cross-sectional area, ultrasound-determined fascicle length, and pennation angle were obtained. The heel-rise test yielded reduced max height (32%), number of repetitions (54%), and work performed (61%), P