Selective Muscle Weakness in Achilles Tendinopathy: Is It Time to Look Beyond the Soleus?
Plantarflexor weakness in Achilles tendinopathy has long been attributed to soleus dysfunction. However, recent neurophysiological and biomechanical evidence challenge this view, suggesting selective deficits in gastrocnemius lateralis muscle-tendon unit. This article reexamines the role of the triceps surae in Achilles tendinopathy and proposes a shift toward assessing gastrocnemius lateralis deficits and targeting rehabilitation to restore its function.
Authors
- Gabriel Fernandes (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6222-3539)
- Lucas BR Orssatto
- Gabriel S. Trajano (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4667-4257)
- François Hug
Institutions
- Queensland University of Technology (AU)
- The University of Queensland (AU)
- Institut Universitaire de France (FR)
- Université Côte d'Azur (FR)
- Laboratoire Motricité Humaine Éducation Sport Santé (FR)
- Southern Cross University (AU)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews
- Published
- 2026-02-09
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1249/jes.0000000000000381
- Primary Topic
- Tendon Structure and Treatment
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00