Long-Term Deficits in Muscle Composition, Performance and Quality of Movement after Achilles Tendon Rupture: A Review

Abstract

The acute rupture of the Achilles tendon is an increasingly common injury due to an active lifestyle and participation in sports, especially in the middle-aged group. We conducted a focused review of the literature and found that the acute rupture of the Achilles tendon leaves long-term changes in the structure of the triceps surae muscle, regardless of whether it was treated surgically or conservatively. Significant elongation of the Achilles tendon and atrophy of the triceps surae can be observed on the injured leg, even 4 years or more after the injury. The injury also has long-lasting consequences on movement patterns of walking, running and jumping. These compensatory strategies place stress on other musculoskeletal structures, which are then at greater risk for injury.

Keywords

• Achilles tendon
• tendon rupture
• persistent deficits
• movement biomechanics
• muscle structure
• triceps surae