Fig. 4.

Biomechanical model of a “stepping back” Achilles tendon rupture. Performing a “stepping back” movement was the most frequent injury pattern leading to an Achilles tendon rupture in professional male football players. Initial direction of movement is backward with the affected leg being used to initiate change of direction. This movement applies a high force to the Achilles tendon over a short period of time. The Achilles tendon injury is elongated at the assumed injury frame due to ankle dorsiflexion and a knee extension movement. The hip is in extension with the trunk being in a forward position. Foot abduction and pronation is commonly seen but neutral positioning of the foot in the axial and coronal plane may also be present. Video footage (Serie A, 14.03.2010, Sky/Wyscout/YouTube) is publicly available and protected by European copyright laws for scientific use