PARAMETRIC STUDY OF MUSCULO-ARTICULAR STIFFNESS OBTAINED BY FREE VIBRATION TECHNIQUE

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of several variables on musculo-articular stiffness (MAS) linked to ankle articulation using free vibration techniques. Twenty one university students participated in the present study. The outcomes: 2nd metatarsal head moment arm (R), Achilles tendon moment arm (r), the ratio of both (R/r), force (f), MAS (k) and a unitary MAS (ku). Independent samples t-tests and One-way ANOVA with repeated measures were carried out. Results: Across gender, very significant differences in k values (p<0.001), R values (p=0.000) and r values (p<0.001). Conversely, no significant differences in ku values (p=0.14) or R/r values (p>0.622). Conclusions: Anatomical symmetry obtained implies mechanical symmetry and the differences of k obtained across gender may be due to differences in size.