Gastrocnemius function on ankle and knee during gait

Abstract

Introduction: Although some studies have investigated the effects of muscle fatigue [1], there is no report about the effect of fatigue on musculotendinous stiffness of the triceps surae or on the duration of this effect. This study was designed to compare the effect of two fatigue protocols onmusculotendinous stiffness of the triceps surae up 15min flowing procedures. Patients/materials and methods: Twenty university students participated in this study. Musculotendinous stiffness of the triceps suraewasmeasured before and after a fatigue protocolswhich comprised continuous isometric voluntary plantar flexion contraction (25% maximum voluntary contraction and 70% maximum voluntary contraction) until contraction could no longer be maintained [1,2]. The free oscillation technique was used to measure musculotendinous stiffness of the triceps surae [3]. A Kistler force plate was used to measure the force applied. Results: Musculotendinous stiffness decreased immediately after both fatigue protocols (P 0.05). Discussion and conclusions:Musculotendinous stiffness of the triceps surae decreased significantly after both fatigue protocols. This may reflect a creep event for the tendon during prolonged isometric contractions. Change in musculotendinous stiffness last for 15min after the fatigue task. This may reflect long lasting effect of fatigue on musculoskeletal and neuromuscular systems.