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.