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. 2009 Nov;10(4):142-9.
doi: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2009.07.001. Epub 2009 Aug 5.

Scientific bases and clinical utilisation of the calf-raise test

Kim Hébert-Losier  1 , Anthony G Schneiders, Richard J Newsham-West, S John Sullivan
Affiliations

Scientific bases and clinical utilisation of the calf-raise test

Kim Hébert-Losier et al. Phys Ther Sport. 2009 Nov.

Abstract

Background: Athletes commonly sustain injuries to the triceps surae muscle-tendon unit. The calf-raise test (CRT) is frequently employed in sports medicine for the detection and monitoring of such injuries. However, despite being widely-used, a recent systematic review found no universal consensus relating to the test's purpose, parameters, and standard protocols.

Objectives: The purpose of this paper is to provide a clinical perspective on the anatomo-physiological bases underpinning the CRT and to discuss the utilisation of the test in relation to the structure and function of the triceps surae muscle-tendon unit.

Design: Structured narrative review.

Methods: Nine electronic databases were searched using keywords and MESH headings related to the CRT and the triceps surae muscle-tendon unit anatomy and physiology. A hand-search of reference lists and relevant journals and textbooks complemented the electronic search.

Summary: There is evidence supporting the clinical use of the CRT to assess soleus and gastrocnemius, their shared aponeurosis, the Achilles tendon, and the combined triceps surae muscle-tendon unit. However, employing the same clinical test to assess all these structures and their associated functions remains challenging.

Conclusions: Further refinement of the CRT for the triceps surae muscle-tendon unit is needed. This is vital to support best practice utilisation, standardisation, and interpretation of the CRT in sports medicine.

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