Relationship between ankle dorsiflexion limitation and dynamic balance after achilles tendon rupture surgery

Abstract

Background: Achilles tendon rupture accounts for approximately 10.7% of all tendon injuries, and has been reported to be responsible for 47% of acute sports-related injuries. Although Achilles tendon rupture is more commonly observed in athletes, intrinsic factors such as body composition, age, and sex contribute to decreased tendon elasticity between the ages of 30–50, increasing the likelihood of injury. According to the World Health Organization, the annual incidence of Achilles tendon rupture ranges from 7 to 40 cases per 100,000 population. Aim: To investigate the relationship between ankle range of motion limitations and dynamic balance performance in patients following Achilles tendon rupture. Materials and Methods: Using a cross-sectional study design. A total of 60 patients who underwent surgical repair for Achilles tendon rupture at Songino-khairkhan District General Hospital were included. The Achilles Tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS) questionnaire (10 items) was used to assess self-reported functional status. Ankle dorsiflexion range of motion was measured using an inclinometer, and dynamic balance was assessed using the modified Star Excursion Balance Test (mSEBT). Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 25.0. Results: The mean ATRS score among participants was 45.25±14.27, indicating a high level of functional limitation. The dorsiflexion range of motion of the injured limb was 11.12 ± 3.90 degrees, which was significantly reduced compared to the non-injured side (p < 0.05). A weak correlation was observed between dorsiflexion range of motion of the uninjured ankle and dynamic balance in the posterolateral and posteromedial directions (p < 0.05). Conclusion: 1. The dorsiflexion range of motion in the injured ankle was three times lower than that of the uninjured side 2. The limited ankle dorsiflexion range of motion was not associated with dynamic balance performance.