Force transmission within the Achilles tendon

Force transmission within the Achilles tendon

Summary

The Achilles tendon (AT) comprises three subtendons arising from the soleus (SOL) and the lateral (LG) and medial (MG) heads of the gastrocnemius muscle. Recent human studies show non-uniform displacements within AT, but with non-invasive imaging these displacements cannot be attributed to specific subtendons. Neither is it possible to measure the mechanical consequences of such intratendon deformations. Connective tissue linkages between muscle bellies and tendons provide an important mechanism for distributing forces within muscle groups and, by reducing peak stresses, may serve to prevent injuries. The aim of this project is to investigate the distribution of deformation within the AT and its mechanical consequences.

Project Parameters

Launch Date: 2016
Funding: NWO

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