Effect of eccentric training on the plantar flexor muscle-tendon tissue properties.
OBJECTIVE
It has been shown that eccentric training can be effective in the rehabilitation of patients with Achilles tendonopathy. The mechanism behind these results is not clear. However, there is evidence that tendons are able to respond to repeated forces by altering their structure and composition, and, thus, their mechanical properties change. In this regard, the objective of the present study was to investigate whether eccentric training affects the mechanical properties of the plantar flexor's muscle-tendon tissue properties.


METHODS
Seventy-four healthy subjects were randomized into two groups: an eccentric training group and a control group. The eccentric training group performed a 6-wk eccentric training program for the calf muscles. Before and after this period, all subjects were evaluated for dorsiflexion range of motion using universal goniometry, passive resistive torque of the plantar flexors, and stiffness of the Achilles tendon. Passive resistive torque was measured during ankle dorsiflexion on an isokinetic dynamometer. Stiffness of the Achilles tendon was assessed using a dynamometer, in combination with ultrasonography.


RESULTS
The results of the study reveal that the dorsiflexion range of motion was significantly increased only in the eccentric training group. The eccentric heel drop program also resulted in a significant decrease of the passive resistive torque of the plantar flexors (from 16.423 +/- 0.827 to 12.651 +/- 0.617 N.m). The stiffness of the Achilles tendon did not change significantly as a result of training.


CONCLUSIONS
These findings provide evidence that an eccentric training program results in changes to some of the mechanical properties of the plantar flexor muscles. These changes were thought to be associated with modifications to structure rather than to stretch tolerance.
Mahieu
Nele Nathalie
NN
Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium. Nele.Mahieu@UGent.be
McNair
Peter
P
Cools
Ann
A
D'Haen
Caroline
C
Vandermeulen
Katrien
K
Witvrouw
Erik
E
D000125:Achilles Tendon / Q000502:physiology*; D000328:Adult; D000842:Ankle / Q000502:physiology*; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D005260:Female; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D052580:Muscle Stretching Exercises; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000502:physiology*; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular / Q000502:physiology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013710:Tendons / Q000502:physiology*; D019415:Torque