Isometric Contraction-Based Pain Modulation Versus Eccentric Strengthening in Treating Achilles Tendinopathy

Not Applicable

Active, not recruiting

• Conditions: Achilles Tendinopathy

• Registration Number: NCT06905743
• Lead Sponsor: Superior University

Brief Summary

Achilles tendinopathy is a common overuse injury that leads to pain and functional limitations. Traditional rehabilitation focuses on eccentric strengthening, which has been widely studied for its benefits in promoting tendon remodeling and improving strength. However, recent research suggests that isometric contractions may offer superior pain modulation effects, especially in the early stages of rehabilitation.

Detailed Description

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of isometric contraction-based pain modulation versus eccentric strengthening in treating Achilles tendinopathy. Isometric exercises involve maintaining a static muscle contraction, which has been shown to reduce pain through neuromuscular mechanisms, potentially making it a valuable alternative or complement to eccentric loading.

Study Timeline

• Status Verified: 2025-03
• Study Start: 2025-03-20
• Study First Submitted: 2025-03-25
• Study First Submitted QC: 2025-03-25
• Last Update Submitted: 2025-03-25
• Study First Posted: 2025-04-01
• Last Update Posted: 2025-04-01
• Primary Completion: 2025-06-20
• Study Completion: 2026-02-20

Recruitment & Eligibility

• Status: ACTIVE_NOT_RECRUITING
• Sex: All
• Target Recruitment: 38

Inclusion Criteria

• Clinically Diagnosed with Achilles Tendinopathy using MRI
• At least 3 months incidence period of Achilles Tendinopathy
• Must be able to attend all treatment sessions and follow-up assessments.
• Ability to walk independently without any assistive devices.

Exclusion Criteria

• Severely restricted ROM of ankle
• Patients who underwent surgery for Achilles tendinopathy
• Patients who had undergone previous surgery of lower limb extremity
• Those using ankle orthosis
• Patients with systemic diseases affecting ankle (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoporosis)
• Individuals with neurological disorders affecting the lower limbs.
• Systemic Conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases.

Study & Design

• Study Type: INTERVENTIONAL
• Study Design: PARALLEL

Primary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
NUMERIC PAIN RATING SCALE (NPRS):	12 Months	The Numeric Pain Rating Scale is a widely used, reliable, and user-friendly tool for assessing an individual's level of pain (NPRS). The patient is required to rate their level of discomfort using a self-reported scale with a range of 0 to 10, where ""0"" indicates no pain and ""10"" indicates the most excruciating pain.
PRESSURE ALGOMETRY:	12 Months	The pressure pain threshold (PPT), or the lowest force that causes pain in a particular body part, can be objectively measured using pressure algometry. To test sensitivity and identify shifts in pain perception, a portable instrument called a pressure algometer gently and gradually applies pressure to tissue, such as muscles or tendons. Pressure Algometry offers a methodical, objective way to measure pain sensitivity, which is commonly utilized in clinical and research contexts. It is frequently used to evaluate tenderness and pain in musculoskeletal issues, myofascial pain, and tendinopathy. Pressure algometry is a widely used tool to assess mechanical pain sensitivity by applying controlled pressure to a specific area and measuring the pain threshold. Its reliability is well-established, with intra-rater reliability coefficients ranging from 0.70 to 0.94, depending on the site of application and methodological consistency .

Trial Locations

Locations (1)

Punjab Social Security Health Management Hospital Manga Raiwind; 🇵🇰 Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan