A criteria-based rehabilitation program for chronic mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy: study protocol for a...

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Orthopedics
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Achilles tendinopathy (AT) is a prevalent overuse injury in runners, causing persistent pain and functional deficits.
• Current rehabilitation programs aim to reduce pain and restore function for return to sport.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare a criteria-based rehabilitation program with a standard program for Achilles tendinopathy.
• To evaluate changes in pain and function using the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Achilles (VISA-A) questionnaire.
• To assess improvements in calf strength, reactive strength, and lower limb biomechanics.

Main Methods:

• Sixty participants with chronic mid-portion AT were randomized into two groups.
• One group followed a daily exercise program guided by symptoms.
• The other group underwent high-intensity sessions with load and reactive strength progression.
• Measurements included isokinetic dynamometry, drop jumps, 3D motion analysis, and VISA-A questionnaires at baseline, 6, and 12 weeks.
• Long-term follow-up at 6, 12, and 24 months assessed sport participation and re-injury.

Main Results:

• The study is designed to provide comprehensive data on the effectiveness of the new rehabilitation approach.
• It will analyze changes in plantar flexor strength, reactive strength, and running/hopping biomechanics.
• The VISA-A questionnaire will serve as the primary outcome measure.

Conclusions:

• This research introduces a novel, individualized, criteria-based rehabilitation program for chronic Achilles tendinopathy.
• Progression is guided by objective strength and reactive strength measures.
• The study will offer long-term insights into recovery and re-injury rates.