Comparative evaluation of efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave therapy in addition to eccentric exercises in management of noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy in athletes

Achilles Tendinopathy is a common overuse condition in athletes, caused by repetitive strain on Achilles tendon. affected athletes presents with pain, swelling and impaired functions. Electrotherapy, commonly Extracorporeal Shock wave Therapy (ESWT) is being widely used in treatment of Achilles tendinopathy as an adjunct to other treatment methods. This study aimed to compare the therapeutic effect of ESWT with eccentric exercises over eccentric exercise alone in management of athlete with Achilles tendinopathy. Methods: This study was prospective randomized control trial (single blinded). 60 patients with Achilles tendinopathy were randomized into 2 groups, A & B with 30 participants in each group. Group A patients were treated with eccentric exercises alone, while group B patients were treated with ESWT in addition to eccentric exercises. ESWT was given 3 times per week for 3 weeks. Follow up was taken at 2, 6and 12 weeks following completion of therapy. Pain and functional status was assessed before giving the treatment and 2, 6 and 12 weeks following completion of treatment using VAS (Visual analogue scale) and VISA-A (Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment- Achilles Questionnaire) scores. Results: Participants in Group A and B had mean age of 24 years and 27 years respectively. Group A had 12 female and 18 male participants whereas group B constituted 9 female and 21 male participants. The mean duration of symptoms in Group A & B were 5 weeks and 6 weeks respectively. Following treatment, decreased intensity of pain and improvement in function was seen in both the groups. Mean VAS and VISA-A scores were not statistically significant at first follow up visit following treatment at 2 weeks. But both the scores were found to be statistically significant at consequent visits at 6 and 12 weeks ((p<0.05) following completion of treatment

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