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Mechanical properties of degenerated tendons and their influence on lower extremity biomechanics

Posted on:2009-05-06Degree:Ph.DType:Dissertation
University:University of Southern CaliforniaCandidate:Arya, ShrutiFull Text:PDF
GTID:1441390005461281Subject:Physical therapy
Abstract/Summary:
Achilles tendinopathy is a poorly understood pathology causing considerable morbidity among the general and athletic populations. Recent literature has suggested that tendinopathy may result in a mechanically weaker tendon. Impaired tendon mechanics may influence not only musculo-tendinous properties, but also mechanics of the joint and limb. The purpose of this dissertation was to delineate the mechanical characteristics of the Achilles tendon, ankle joint and lower limb in the presence of Achilles tendinopathy. Three studies were conducted to achieve this purpose.;Study ;Study ;Study ;In summary, the results of this dissertation provide evidence for the detrimental effects of tendinopathy on tendon mechanical and material properties. Additionally, this dissertation demonstrated a possible influence of altered musculo-tendon properties on neuro-muscular mechanics of the joint and limb associated with the pathology. These alterations in mechanics at the tendon, joint and limb levels should be taken into account while designing treatment protocols for tendinopathy.
Keywords/Search Tags:Tendon, Mechanics, Tendinopathy, Joint and limb, Mechanical, Influence
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