Climbing is associated with tissue-specific mechanical adaptations of the plantar fascia and achilles tendon.

BACKGROUND

The effects of amateur climbing on the mechanical and viscoelastic properties of foot and lower leg soft tissues remain poorly understood.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study compared 33 amateur climbers with 32 non-climbing controls. MyotonPRO assessment evaluated oscillation frequency, dynamic stiffness, logarithmic decrement, mechanical stress relaxation time, and creep at selected foot and lower leg soft-tissue sites. Foot Posture Index was used. Exploratory analyses were performed according to climbing experience.

RESULTS

Climbers demonstrated tissue-specific differences in selected myotonometric variables. The most consistent profile was observed in the distal plantar fascia beneath the fifth ray and the mid-portion of the Achilles tendon, where climbers showed higher oscillation frequency and dynamic stiffness with lower relaxation time and creep values. Foot Posture Index scores were comparable between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Amateur climbing may be associated with localised biomechanical adaptations of lower extremity soft tissues.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.