The influence of knee position on ankle dorsiflexion - a biometric

Background Musculus gastrocnemius tightness (MGT) can be diagnosed by comparing ankle dorsiflexion (ADF) with the knee extended and flexed. Although various measurement techniques exist, the degree of knee flexion needed to eliminate the effect of the gastrocnemius on ADF is still unknown. The aim of this study was to identify the minimal degree of knee flexion required to eliminate the restricting effect of the musculus gastrocnemius on ADF. Methods Bilateral ADF of 20 asymptomatic volunteers aged 18-40 years (50% female) was assessed prospectively at six different degrees of knee flexion (0°, 20°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75°, Lunge). Tests were performed following a standardized protocol, non weightbearing and weightbearing, by two observers. Statistics comprised of descriptive statistics, t-tests, repeated measurement ANOVA and ICC. Results 20 individuals with a mean age of 27 ± 4 years were tested. No significant side to side differences were observed. The average ADF [95% confidence interval] for non weightbearing was 4° [1°-8°] with the knee extended and 20° [16°-24°] for the knee 75° flexed. Mean weightbearing ADF was 25° [22°-28°] for the knee extended and 39° [36°-42°] for the knee 75° flexed. The mean differences between 20° knee flexion and full extension were 15° [12°-18°] non weightbearing and 13° [11°-16°] weightbearing. Significant differences of ADF were only found between full extension and 20° of knee flexion. Further knee flexion did not increase ADF. Conclusion Knee flexion of 20° fully eliminates the ADF restraining effect of the gastrocnemius. This knowledge is essential to design a standardized clinical examination assessing MGT.

PDF) The influence of knee position on ankle dorsiflexion - A biometric study

Diagnosis of Musculus Gastrocnemius Tightness - Key Factors for the Clinical Examination

Silfverskiold Test Interpretation

Gastrocnemius tightness: A population based observational study - ScienceDirect

PDF) Effect of subtalar joint position on the measurement of maximum ankle dorsiflexic

Longitudinal Evaluation of Hemiplegic Ankle Rehabilitation Efficacy by Wearable Inertial Sensor Systems with an Assortment of Machine Learning Algorithms

PDF) Validation of a weight bearing ankle equinus value in older adults with diabetes

PDF) Effects of Ankle Dorsiflexion on Active and Passive Unilateral Straight Leg Raising

Equinus: Its surprising role in foot pathologies

Definition of COM displacement, ankle dorsiflexion, knee flexion, hip

Inter-rater reliability and validity of angle measurements using smartphone applications for weight-bearing ankle dorsiflexion range of motion measurements - ScienceDirect

PDF) The influence of knee position on ankle dorsiflexion - A biometric study

Where to place electrodes for foot drop

Inter-rater reliability and validity of angle measurements using smartphone applications for weight-bearing ankle dorsiflexion range of motion measurements - ScienceDirect