Epidemiologic investigation of 1394 feet: coincidence of hindfoot malalignment and Achilles tendon disorders

Abstract

Background: The aim of this epidemiologic study was to evaluate the incidence of the Achilles tendinopathy in non athletes and the coincidence with varus alignment of the hindfoot.

Methods: Six hundred ninety-seven patients (1394 feet) have been analysed. The tibiocalcaneal axis was goniometrically measured. The presence of a non insertional and insertional Achilles tendinopathy was clinically determined.

Results: Achilles tendinopathy was found in 5.6% of the patients (4% insertional, 3.6% non insertional, 1.9% both forms). The average tibiocalcaneal angle was calculated with -0.76° for the tendinopathy group and -0.96° for the insertional tendinopathy whereas the control group showed an average angle of 1.77°. For the total group the average tibiocalcaneal axis was calculated with 1.62°. Out of 1394 feet 38.3% showed a varus axis of the hindfoot and 61.7% a valgus alignment.

Conclusions: The coincidence of varus alignment and Achilles tendinopathy could be validated.