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Extracorporeal shockwave for chronic patellar tendinopathy
Ching-Jen Wang1, Jih-Yang Ko, Yi-Sheng Chan
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan 833. w281211@adm.cgmh.org.tw
The American Journal of Sports Medicine
|February 20, 2007
Summary
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) significantly improved outcomes for chronic patellar tendinopathy compared to conservative care. ESWT demonstrated higher success rates and lower recurrence, offering a safer and more effective treatment option.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Chronic patellar tendinopathy shares pathological features with other overuse tendinopathies.
- Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) has shown efficacy in treating various tendinopathies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of ESWT compared to traditional conservative treatments for chronic patellar tendinopathy.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial (Level of evidence, 2) involving 27 patients (study group) and 23 patients (control group).
- The study group received a single session of ESWT (1500 impulses at 14 KV), while the control group received conservative treatments (NSAIDs, physiotherapy, exercise, knee strap).
- Outcomes were assessed using pain scores, Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment (VISA) scores, and ultrasonography over 1-3 years.
Main Results:
- The ESWT group achieved 90% satisfactory results versus 50% in the control group (P < .001), with significantly improved VISA scores (P < .001).
- Symptom recurrence was lower in the ESWT group (13%) compared to the control group (50%) (P = .014).
- Ultrasonography showed increased patellar tendon vascularity and a trend towards reduced thickness in the ESWT group, with no reported complications.
Conclusions:
- ESWT is a more effective and safer treatment option for chronic patellar tendinopathy than traditional conservative management.
- The study supports the use of ESWT for improving patient outcomes and reducing symptom recurrence in this condition.
