title: Intrinsic gait-related risk factors for Achilles tendinopathy in novice runners: a prospective study.
abstract: The purpose of this prospective cohort study was to identify dynamic gait-related risk factors for Achilles tendinopathy (AT) in a population of novice runners. Prior to a 10-week running program, force distribution patterns underneath the feet of 129 subjects were registered using a footscan pressure plate while the subjects jogged barefoot at a comfortable self-selected pace. Throughout the program 10 subjects sustained Achilles tendinopathy of which three reported bilateral complaints. Sixty-six subjects were excluded from the statistical analysis. Therefore the statistical analysis was performed on the remaining sample of 63 subjects. Logistic regression analysis revealed a significant decrease in the total posterior-anterior displacement of the Centre Of Force (COF) (P=0.015) and a laterally directed force distribution underneath the forefoot at 'forefoot flat' (P=0.016) as intrinsic gait-related risk factors for Achilles tendinopathy in novice runners. These results suggest that, in contrast to the frequently described functional hyperpronation following a more inverted touchdown, a lateral foot roll-over following heel strike and diminished forward force transfer underneath the foot should be considered in the prevention of Achilles tendinopathy.
authors.affiliation: Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy, Ghent University, Belgium. Ans.VanGinckel@UGent.be
authors.forename: Ans
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Van Ginckel
authors.forename: Youri
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Thijs
authors.forename: Narmin Ghani Zadeh
authors.initials: NG
authors.lastname: Hesar
authors.forename: Nele
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Mahieu
authors.forename: Dirk
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: De Clercq
authors.forename: Philip
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Roosen
authors.forename: Erik
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Witvrouw
mesh_terms: D000125:Achilles Tendon / Q000293:injuries*; D000328:Adult; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D015331:Cohort Studies; D012090:Cumulative Trauma Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D005528:Foot / Q000502:physiology*; D005684:Gait / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D012420:Running / Q000293:injuries*