Perturbation of calf-muscle stiffness with graded plantar flexions as measured by magnetic resonance elastography

Using magnetic resonance elastography (MRE), we investigated the potential changes in the stiffness of calf muscle with plantar flexion. Significant decreases in shear modulus were found when exercise was applied in a progressive way. Such decrease was possibly due to the increase muscle hyperemia in exercise, which was partially verified by increased T2-weighted signals in the same study. In conclusion, MRE is a promising method for measuring mechanical viscoelastic properties of skeletal muscles and thus for assessing muscle function or performance.