Traditionally Plantaris has been considered of little clinical importance and absent in 8–20% of the population. Recent evidence indicates that it is present in 98–100% of the population and that it may have a contributing role in Achilles tendinopathy due to its close anatomical relationship. The aim of this study was to establish whether Plantaris was present in a sample of cadaveric limbs, to establish its position in relation to the Achilles tendon and to conduct measures of its thickness and width. Forty eight cadaveric limbs which had been previously dissected were assessed. Plantaris was looked for in the region of the medial Achilles. If it could not be identified here, Gastrocnemius was reflected back to reveal Plantaris tendon beneath, and was then followed distally. All Plantaris tendon measurements were taken 2- 6 cm from the Achilles insertion using a vernier caliper.Introduction
Materials and Methods
In recent years, the plantaris tendon has been
implicated in the development of chronic painful mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy.
In some cases, a thickened plantaris tendon is closely associated
with the Achilles tendon, and surgical excision of the plantaris
tendon has been reported to be curative in patients who have not
derived benefit following conservative treatment and surgical interventions. The aim of this review is to outline the basic aspects of, and
the recent research findings, related to the plantaris tendon, covering
anatomical and clinical studies including those dealing with histology,
imaging and treatment. Cite this article
