Photobiomodulation and eccentric exercise for Achilles tendinopathy: a randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Rehabilitation Science
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Achilles tendinopathy treatment often involves arduous eccentric exercise regimens, leading to compliance issues.
• This study is the first to evaluate a reduced exercise frequency combined with photobiomodulation for Achilles tendinopathy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effectiveness of a novel treatment protocol for Achilles tendinopathy.
• To compare a reduced exercise frequency regimen with and without photobiomodulation against a standard regimen.

Main Methods:

• A double-blind, randomized controlled trial with intention-to-treat analysis was conducted.
• Eighty participants (18-65 years) with chronic Achilles tendinopathy were randomized into four groups: placebo/standard exercise, laser/standard exercise, placebo/reduced exercise, and laser/reduced exercise.
• The primary outcome measure was the Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment-Achilles (VISA-A) questionnaire, assessed at baseline, week 4, and week 12.

Main Results:

• Group 4 (Laser + Ex Regime 2) showed significant VISA-A gains at 12 weeks compared to other groups.
• A moderate effect size favored exercise twice per week over more frequent sessions.
• Four participants dropped out due to adverse reactions, with missing data imputed for analysis.

Conclusions:

• Twice-daily exercise sessions are not essential for treating Achilles tendinopathy; equivalent results can be achieved with twice-weekly sessions.
• The addition of photobiomodulation to exercise provides additional benefits for Achilles tendinopathy treatment.
• This combined approach may improve patient compliance and treatment efficacy.