Muscle Architecture vs Alfredson Protocol in Achilles Tendinopathy

Participants in this arm will perform exercises specifically designed according to the architectural and functional properties of the triceps surae muscles. For example, knee-flexed positions will be used to target the soleus, while knee-extended positions will be emphasized for the gastrocnemii. Loading intensity and exercise progression will be tailored to optimize tendon and muscle remodeling.

This intervention involves the traditional eccentric heel-drop program, originally developed for mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy. Participants perform three sets of 15 repetitions, twice daily, throughout the intervention period. Exercises are carried out both with the knee extended and flexed to load different portions of the triceps surae. The protocol applies repetitive eccentric loading to the Achilles tendon with the aim of stimulating collagen synthesis, reducing symptoms, and promoting tendon adaptation.