Differences Between Long Distance Road Runners and Treadmill Runners in Achilles Tendon Structure

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF HAIFA · Mar 4, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at the differences in the Achilles tendon structure between two types of runners: those who run on the road and those who run on a treadmill. The Achilles tendon is a strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, and injuries to this area can be common in runners. By comparing road runners and treadmill runners, the study aims to understand how their running surfaces might affect the health and function of the Achilles tendon.

To participate in this study, you should be between the ages of 18 and 62 and run regularly at least twice a week for at least half an hour. It's important that most of your running is either on a treadmill or outdoors on the road. However, if you have had any pain or injuries to your Achilles tendon recently, or if you've had any surgeries or other significant injuries to your lower legs, you may not be eligible. If you join the trial, you can expect to undergo assessments of your tendon structure and functional tests related to your running. This research could provide valuable insights into how different running environments affect tendon health!

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • run regularly at least twice a week for half an hour,
• • over 80% of the training on a treadmill or road
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • pain or injury to Achilles tendon during the 6 months, preventing running for at least 3 days.
• • past Achilles tendon surgeries,
• • sprained ankle in the last six months,
• • lower limb and back pain while running
• • participants who report running with minimalist shoes.