Correlation of some predisposing intrinsic conditions with the morphological integrity of the Achilles tendon

Adegbenro Omotuyi John Fakoya, David Adeiza Otohinoyi, Francis Adelade Fakoya

Annals of African Medicine 2018 17(2):58-63

Background: Most studies have focused on ill-tendons with a little insight on how intrinsic factors correlate with the Achilles tendon (AT) morphology. Aim: This study aims at establishing how blood pressure (BP), blood glucose (BG), and body mass index (BMI) correlate with the morphology of the AT with emphasis on width changes. Materials and Methods: Participants were volunteers who were recruited during and after an organized health fair by the Medical Students' body of All Saints University, School of Medicine, Commonwealth of Dominica. A total of 336 people, consisting of 135 males and 201 females volunteered for the study. The most dominant age group was between 60 and 65 years. A self-administered questionnaire was used to acquire necessary information, and a preliminary clinical procedure was used to check for BP, BG, and BMI. Ultrasound examination was done in B-mode using a linear array high-frequency probe with a mediolateral approach at the AT. Results: Among the participants, 42.68%, 69.75%, and 30.38% had normal BP, BG, and BMI readings, respectively. BP, BG, and BMI statistically supported the hypothesis. Individuals with extreme BP, BG, and BMI had their AT width wider when compared with individuals with normal systemic readings. Sonographic examination revealed most participants with normal tendon morphology while some identifiable changes were observed among others. Conclusion: This study suggests that BP, BG, and BMI could affect the morphological integrity of the AT. It indicates that asymptomatic high blood sugar and BP could weaken the AT, leading to pain which may appear unrelated to the physician and patient.

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