Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

10. Muscles

Muscle Actions

Anatomy & Physiology

10. Muscles

Muscle Actions

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3:22 minutes

Problem 18

Textbook Question

While jogging, Mr. Ahmadi was forced to jump out of the way of a speeding car. He heard a snapping sound that was immediately followed by pain in his right lower calf. A gap was visible between his swollen calf and his heel, and he was unable to plantar flex that foot. What do you think happened?

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the key symptoms described in the problem: snapping sound, pain in the lower calf, visible gap between the calf and heel, swelling, and inability to plantar flex the foot. These symptoms suggest a musculoskeletal injury.

Understand the anatomy involved: The calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) connect to the heel via the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon is responsible for plantar flexion, which is the movement of pointing the toes downward.

Analyze the visible gap between the calf and heel: This indicates a possible rupture of the Achilles tendon. When the tendon tears, the connection between the calf muscles and the heel is disrupted, leading to the inability to plantar flex the foot.

Consider the mechanism of injury: Sudden, forceful movements like jumping or pushing off the foot can place excessive stress on the Achilles tendon, especially during activities like jogging. This aligns with the scenario described in the problem.

Conclude that Mr. Ahmadi likely experienced an Achilles tendon rupture. This injury requires medical evaluation and treatment, which may include immobilization, physical therapy, or surgical repair depending on the severity of the rupture.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Achilles Tendon Rupture

An Achilles tendon rupture occurs when the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone tears, often due to sudden stress or force. This injury is characterized by a snapping sound, swelling, and an inability to perform plantar flexion, which is the action of pointing the toes downward. It is common in athletes and can result from activities that involve quick acceleration or changes in direction.

Plantar Flexion

Plantar flexion is the movement that decreases the angle between the foot and the leg, allowing the toes to point downward. This motion is primarily facilitated by the calf muscles and the Achilles tendon. Inability to perform plantar flexion, as seen in Mr. Ahmadi's case, indicates a significant injury to the structures involved in this movement, often pointing to a serious condition like a tendon rupture.

Symptoms of Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries, such as tendon ruptures, often present with specific symptoms including pain, swelling, bruising, and functional impairment. In Mr. Ahmadi's situation, the visible gap and swelling in the calf, along with the acute pain and loss of function, are indicative of a severe soft tissue injury. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.

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