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Eccentric training in Achilles tendinopathy: is it harmful to tendon microcirculation?
1Sports Traumatology of the Hand and Wrist, Plastic, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str 1, 30625 Hannover, Germany. kknobi@yahoo.com
British Journal of Sports Medicine
|November 28, 2006
Summary
Eccentric training for Achilles tendinopathy is safe and effective, improving tendon microcirculation and reducing pain without adverse effects. This daily regimen offers a beneficial approach for both mid-portion and insertional tendinopathy.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Orthopedics
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Chronic Achilles tendinopathy often leads to pain and functional limitations.
- Eccentric training is a recognized treatment for improving function and reducing pain.
- The impact of eccentric training on Achilles tendon microcirculation remains unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of a 12-week eccentric training program on Achilles tendon microcirculation.
- To assess changes in capillary blood flow, tissue oxygen saturation, and venous filling pressure.
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of eccentric training in patients with Achilles tendinopathy.
Main Methods:
- 59 patients with symptomatic Achilles tendinopathy (mid-portion and insertional) were enrolled.
- Baseline microcirculation was measured using laser Doppler at multiple tendon sites and depths.
- A 12-week daily home-based eccentric training regimen was implemented.
Main Results:
- Capillary blood flow decreased significantly at the insertion and distal mid-portion.
- Tissue oxygen saturation remained stable across all measured areas.
- Postcapillary venous filling pressures were significantly reduced at the insertion and distal mid-portion.
- Pain scores decreased significantly in both mid-portion and insertional tendinopathy groups.
- No adverse events such as tendon rupture were reported.
Conclusions:
- Daily eccentric training is a safe and straightforward intervention for Achilles tendinopathy.
- The training positively impacts tendon microcirculation without adverse effects.
- Eccentric training demonstrates beneficial microcirculatory changes in both mid-portion and insertional Achilles tendinopathy.
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