Selective muscle weakness in Achilles tendinopathy: is it time to look beyond the soleus?

Plantarflexor weakness in Achilles tendinopathy has long been attributed to soleus dysfunction. However, recent neurophysiological and biomechanical evidence challenges this view, suggesting selective deficits in gastrocnemius lateralis muscle-tendon unit. This article re-examines the role of the triceps surae in Achilles tendinopathy and proposes a shift toward assessing gastrocnemius lateralis deficits and targeting rehabilitation to restore its function. SUMMARY STATEMENT: Emerging evidence questions the soleus-centric model of Achilles tendinopathy, highlighting deficits in the gastrocnemius lateralis and their implications for rehabilitation.