Ankle Plantar Flexor Impairments and Load Monitoring in People with Achilles Tendinopathy

Achilles tendinopathy is an overuse injury and is prevalent within the running population. Achilles tendinopathy occurs when normal physical activities exceed the tendon’s capacity to tolerate the load. The key to managing Achilles tendinopathy is finding the optimal loading zone and gradually building the tendon’s capacity. However, people with Achilles tendinopathy encounter pain that may lead to different coping strategies and load mismanagement. A wearable movement sensor has been used in the research undertaken in this thesis to monitor daily load management in people with Achilles tendinopathy over the course of physiotherapy treatment. The research findings provide insight into factors that may influence rehabilitation outcomes.