An exploration of the acute response of the asymptomatic Achilles tendon to exercise using diagnostic ultrasound. A systematic review of cohort studies
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(Published version)
Date
2025
Authors
Roesch, H.J.
Banwell, H.
Jones, M.
Saunders, S.
Milanese, S.
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Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, 2025; 28(4):313-323
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<h4>Objectives</h4>To describe the acute effects of exercise on the morphology, mechanical properties and blood flow of the Achilles tendon, as measured with ultrasound.<h4>Design</h4>Systematic review of cohort studies.<h4>Methods</h4>Seven electronic research databases were systematically searched for exercise intervention-based studies reporting morphology, mechanical properties and blood flow of the Achilles tendon, as measured with ultrasound.<h4>Results</h4>Searches revealed 2460 possible articles and 35 satisfied the inclusion criteria. There is evidence that eccentric heel drops resulted in a reduction in the diameter and cross-sectional area of the tendon whilst running/stretch-shortening cycle activities did not result in a change. The latter did not affect tendon mechanical properties. Tendon blood flow was consistently increased in response to exercise.<h4>Conclusions</h4>The acute response of the Achilles tendon to exercise showed an increase in blood flow and a reduction in diameter following heel drop exercises. Exercise modes were relevant since eccentric and isometric loading resulted in a greater response in the tendon. Activities like running and hopping placing specific demands on the tendon's spring function resulted in a minimal change in tendon morphology and no change in mechanical properties.
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Data source: supplementary data, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsams.2024.11.005
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Copyright 2024 The Authors (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Access Condition Notes: This is an open access article under the CC BY license