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Patience A, Steultjens M, Siebert S, Hendry G. Significant functional impairment and disability in individuals with psoriatic arthritis and Achilles tendon pain: a cross-sectional observational study. Rheumatol Int 2024; 44:1469-1479. [PMID: 38850322 PMCID: PMC11222213 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-024-05629-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
The Achilles tendon (AT) insertion is the most common site of enthesitis in psoriatic arthritis (PsA). The structure and function of the AT in PsA, and the prevalence of mid-portion pathology, is unknown. To compare the structure and function of the AT in people with PsA with self-reported AT pain (PsA + AT), PsA without self-reported AT pain (PsA-AT) and healthy controls. A cross-sectional, observational study was conducted. The ATs were assessed by clinical and US examination (B-mode and Power Doppler), performance-based testing (bilateral heel raise test (HRT) and 10 m walk test), and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) (including the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Achilles [VISA-A]). Between-group differences were described using descriptive statistics, Chi-squared testing, parametric (1-way ANOVA) and non-parametric (Mann-Whitney or Kruskal-Wallis) testing. 22 PsA (11 per group) and 11 healthy control participants who were comparable in terms of sex, age, and BMI (PsA-AT = longer PsA disease duration) were recruited. VISA-A scores were significantly worse in the PsA + AT group compared to the PsA-AT group and healthy controls (p < 0.001). Inflammatory US features were significantly more prevalent in the PsA + AT group (p < 0.001). Mid-portion AT pathology was observed in the PsA + AT group, irrespective of entheseal disease. Clinical examination alone missed 5/7 cases of 'active' US-confirmed AT enthesitis. AT functional deficits were significant in the PsA + AT group and both PsA groups had lower HRT repetition rates and walked slower compared to healthy controls. Less than 1/3 of the PsA + AT group had received podiatry or physiotherapy care. Significant differences in the structure and function of the AT in PsA were noted. Despite management in line with current guidance, AT pain appears to persist and can result in severe functional impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimie Patience
- Musculoskeletal Health Research Group, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
- MSK Podiatry, NHS Ayrshire and Arran, Kilmarnock, UK
| | - Martijn Steultjens
- Musculoskeletal Health Research Group, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - Stefan Siebert
- School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Gordon Hendry
- Musculoskeletal Health Research Group, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK.
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McMahon G, Cook J. Female Tendons are from Venus and Male Tendons are from Mars, But Does it Matter for Tendon Health? Sports Med 2024:10.1007/s40279-024-02056-7. [PMID: 39075272 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-024-02056-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Tendons play fundamental roles in the execution of human movement and therefore understanding tendon function, health and disease is important for everyday living and sports performance. The acute mechanical behavioural and physiological responses to short-term loading of tendons, as well as more chronic morphological and mechanical adaptations to longer term loading, differ between sexes. This has led some researchers to speculate that there may be a sex-specific injury risk in tendons. However, the link between anatomical, physiological and biomechanical sex-specific differences in tendons and their contributory role in the development of tendon disease injuries has not been critically evaluated. This review outlines the evidence surrounding the sex-specific physiological and biomechanical responses and adaptations to loading and discusses how this evidence compares to clinical evidence on tendon injuries and rehabilitation in the Achilles and patellar tendons in humans. Using the evidence available in both sports science and medicine, this may provide a more holistic understanding to improve our ability to enhance human tendon health and performance in both sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard McMahon
- Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Institute, School of Sport, Ulster University, York Street, Belfast, North Ireland, BT15 1ED, UK.
| | - Jill Cook
- La Trobe Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Stumpner T, Recheis S, Gruber MS, Kindermann H, Mattausch D, Bock P, Pöchgraber P, Ortmaier R, Bischofreiter M. Achilles tendon debridement, calcaneoplasty and double-row tendon footprint reconstruction improve ankle function and athletic performance in patients with insertional Achilles tendinopathy. Foot Ankle Surg 2024:S1268-7731(24)00118-8. [PMID: 38871492 DOI: 10.1016/j.fas.2024.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Insertional Achilles tendinopathy is a frequent condition among physically active individuals. Extensive intratendinous pathologies may require partial tendon detachment, debridement and reconstruction of the tendon footprint. Positive functional outcomes are reported after the procedure, but literature on postoperative sport function is limited. METHODS Pre- and postoperative sports capability and ankle function were assessed in 25 patients undergoing Achilles tendon debridement and double-row footprint reconstruction. RESULTS The mean VAS score for pain during sport decreased significantly from 7.4 (SD, 2.5) to 1.2 (SD, 2.0) postoperatively (p < 0.001). Sports ability and subjective fitness levels increased significantly from 3.6 (SD 3.0) and 3.5 (2.2) to 8.8 (2.4) and 8.8 (2.2), respectively (p < 0.001). A trend from high-impact sports to low-impact sports was observed postoperatively. The subjective surgical outcome was good or excellent in 96 %. CONCLUSION Our study shows improvement in postoperative sports ability and high patient satisfaction after insertional Achilles tendon debridement, and double-row tendon footprint reconstruction. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level IV - retrospective case series.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Stumpner
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ordensklinikum Linz Barmherzige Schwestern, Seilerstaette 4, 4010 Linz, Austria.
| | - Simon Recheis
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ordensklinikum Linz Barmherzige Schwestern, Seilerstaette 4, 4010 Linz, Austria
| | - Michael S Gruber
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ordensklinikum Linz Barmherzige Schwestern, Seilerstaette 4, 4010 Linz, Austria
| | - Harald Kindermann
- University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, Roseggerstraße 15, 4600 Wels, Austria
| | - Dietmar Mattausch
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ordensklinikum Linz Barmherzige Schwestern, Seilerstaette 4, 4010 Linz, Austria
| | - Peter Bock
- Orthopoint Vienna, Mariahilfer Str. 49, 1060 Vienna, Austria
| | - Paul Pöchgraber
- Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Reinhold Ortmaier
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ordensklinikum Linz Barmherzige Schwestern, Seilerstaette 4, 4010 Linz, Austria
| | - Martin Bischofreiter
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ordensklinikum Linz Barmherzige Schwestern, Seilerstaette 4, 4010 Linz, Austria; Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Clinic Diakonissen Schladming, Salzburgerstraße 777, 8970 Schladming, Austria
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Qureshi AU, Hameed M, Umar M, Yasir U, Abbas Z, Jamil S, Masroor L, Arshad A, Tahir S, Ibrahim Raza M. A Comparative Study of the Graston Technique and Alfredson Protocol in the Management of Achilles Tendinopathy. Cureus 2024; 16:e62249. [PMID: 39006664 PMCID: PMC11244946 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.62249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The Achilles tendon, the largest and strongest tendon in the human body, is frequently injured by overuse; this condition is known as Achilles tendinopathy (AT). It serves as a link between the heel bone and the calf muscles and is necessary for motions, such as walking, sprinting, and jumping. Evidence is presented to support the efficacy of the Graston technique and Alfredson protocol for pain reduction and improvement of function and calf muscle strength. The objective of this study is to compare the efficacy of the Graston technique versus the Alfredson protocol in patients with AT. Methods and data collection: After obtaining approval from the ethical review board of the Rawalpindi Medical University, all patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria are divided into two groups, A and B, by generating random identity numbers using Microsoft Excel for allocation. Group A comprises patients who undergo treatment with the Graston technique as conventional therapy with Alfredson protocol (12-week calf muscle eccentric exercises), while those in group B follow a Graston technique with sole heel lift. Individuals in the eccentric exercises group follow an Alfredson method-based 12-week eccentric exercise plan for their leg muscles. The workouts need to be done twice a day, seven days a week for 12 weeks. The plan includes two exercises: the first done with the knee straightened to work the gastrocnemius and the second done with the knee bent to work the soleus. Three sets of 15 repetitions with no rest interval for each exercise are completed twice a day on the affected limb to yield functional improvement. RESULTS The results showed that both the Alfredson protocol and the Graston technique were effective in managing AT symptoms. The study involved dividing 32 participants into two groups who received either treatment for four weeks. The main way to measure improvement was a score called the Villalta-Scanlon Achilles Tendonitis Index score. In both groups, these scores showed significant improvement (with a p-value less than 0.001, which means that the results are very statistically significant). For Group A (who received the Alfredson protocol), the average Villalta-Scanlon Achilles Tendonitis Index score before treatment was 29.25. This score increased to 31.25 at mid-treatment and 34.38 after the full four weeks of treatment. Group B (who received the Graston technique) started with an average Villalta-Scanlon Achilles Tendonitis Index score of 22.94. Their scores also increased throughout the treatment, reaching 34.94 at mid-treatment and 42.88 after four weeks. These findings provide evidence that both treatments can improve AT symptoms, with some suggestions that the Graston technique might be even more effective based on the higher average Villalta-Scanlon Achilles Tendonitis Index scores after treatment. CONCLUSIONS The Graston technique shows promising results, particularly in the mid- and post-treatment phases, indicating its potential efficacy in comparison to the Alfredson protocol in the treatment of AT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Muddsar Hameed
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad, PAK
| | - Muhammad Umar
- Department of Physiotherapy, Rawalpindi Medical University, Rawalpindi, PAK
| | - Umer Yasir
- Department of Medicine, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad, PAK
| | - Zamurd Abbas
- Department of Medicine, International European University, Bishkek, KGZ
| | - Sarem Jamil
- Department of Anatomy, Khyber Medical College, Peshawar, PAK
| | - Linta Masroor
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad, PAK
| | - Arusa Arshad
- Department of Medicine, Fazaia Medical College, Islamabad, PAK
| | - Saima Tahir
- Department of Medicine, International European University, Bishkek, KGZ
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Kruse RC, Rudolph L, Negaard M. Asymptomatic sonographic abnormalities of the hindfoot region in Division I collegiate gymnasts. PM R 2024; 16:563-569. [PMID: 37799012 DOI: 10.1002/pmrj.13077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The hindfoot region is commonly injured in gymnasts, and musculoskeletal ultrasound can be used to identify structural abnormalities in this region. Although prior studies have shown that sonographic abnormalities may not correlate with symptomatic pathology, the presence of asymptomatic sonographic abnormalities of the hindfoot in Division I collegiate gymnasts has not been evaluated. OBJECTIVE To identify and describe commonly seen asymptomatic sonographic abnormalities of the hindfoot region in Division I collegiate gymnasts. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Tertiary care academic medical center. PARTICIPANTS 39 Division I NCAA men's and women's collegiate gymnasts without current hindfoot pain or history of hindfoot injury. INTERVENTIONS Diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound of the hindfoot region. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Sonographic appearance of the hindfoot region, specifically the plantar fascia, plantar fad pad, and Achilles tendon. RESULTS A total of 37 of 39 gymnasts included in the study were found to have at least one asymptomatic sonographic abnormality of the hindfoot region. A total of 28.2% of athletes were found to have sonographic abnormalities within the Achilles tendon, with Doppler flow being the most common finding, and 35.8% of athletes were found to have a Haglund's deformity. However, only 7% of athletes with a Haglund's deformity demonstrated abnormal sonographic findings within the tendon. Sonographic abnormalities of the plantar fascia and plantar fat pad were seen in 30.7% and 69.2% of athletes, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Asymptomatic sonographic abnormalities of the hindfoot region are common in collegiate gymnasts. Clinicians should use clinical judgment when interpreting these findings as they may not represent symptomatic pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan C Kruse
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | | | - Matthew Negaard
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
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Goldberg AJ, Masci L, O'Donnell P, Green R, Brooking D, Bassett P, Lowdell MW, Smith RKW. Autologous bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells are safe for the treatment of Achilles tendinopathy. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11421. [PMID: 38763976 PMCID: PMC11102920 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61399-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Achilles tendinopathy is a disabling condition that affects more than 50% of runners. Pre-clinical studies in a large animal model of naturally-occurring tendinopathy similar to human Achilles tendinopathy has shown benefits of autologous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) implantation. However, MSCs are advanced therapies medicinal products (ATMPs), with strict regulatory requirements. Guided by the regulator we carried out a first in man study to assess the safety and efficacy of autologous MSC injection in human patients with non-insertional Achilles tendinopathy. Ten patients, mean age 47 with mid-portion Achilles tendon pain and swelling for more than 6 months, underwent autologous cultured cell injections (median 12.2 × 106, range 5-19 × 106 cells) into their Achilles tendon. At 24 weeks follow-up, no serious adverse reactions or important medical events were observed. MOXFQ, EQ-5D-5L, and VISA-A scores improved clinically at 12 and 24 weeks. VAS pain improved increasingly at 6, 12 and 24 weeks. MOXFQ Pain and VISA-A Scores improved > 12 points from baseline to 24 weeks in 8 patients. Maximum anteroposterior tendon thickness as measured by greyscale US decreased by mean 0.8 mm at 24 weeks. This phase IIa study demonstrated the safety of autologous MSC injection for non-insertional Achilles tendinopathy and provides proof-of-concept of the technique in patients, all of whom had previously failed conservative treatments for chronic disease and leads the way for a larger randomised controlled trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Goldberg
- Division of Surgery, UCL Institute of Orthopaedics & Musculoskeletal Science, Royal Free Hospital, 9th Floor (East), 2QG, 10 Pond St, London, NW3 2PS, UK.
- Department of Research and Innovation, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH), Brockley Hill, Stanmore, Middlesex, UK.
- MSK Lab, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, Level 2, Faculty Building, South Kensington Campus, London, SW7 2AZ, UK.
- The London Ankle & Arthritis Centre, The Wellington Hospital, Wellington Place, London, NW8 9LE, UK.
| | - Lorenzo Masci
- Institute of Sport Exercise and Health, Tottenham Court Road, London, UK
| | - Paul O'Donnell
- Division of Surgery, UCL Institute of Orthopaedics & Musculoskeletal Science, Royal Free Hospital, 9th Floor (East), 2QG, 10 Pond St, London, NW3 2PS, UK
- Department of Radiology, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust, Brockley Hill, Stanmore, HA7 4LP, UK
| | - Ruth Green
- Department of Radiology, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust, Brockley Hill, Stanmore, HA7 4LP, UK
| | - Deirdre Brooking
- Department of Research and Innovation, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH), Brockley Hill, Stanmore, Middlesex, UK
| | - Paul Bassett
- Statsconsultancy Ltd., 40 Longwood Lane, Amersham, Bucks, HP7 9EN, UK
| | - Mark W Lowdell
- Centre for Cell, Gene & Tissue Therapeutics, Royal Free Hospital, Pond Street, London, NW3 2QG, UK
| | - Roger K W Smith
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, UK
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Hartman H, Cacace A, Leatherman H, Ashkani-Esfahani S, Guss D, Waryasz G, DiGiovanni CW, Gianakos AL. Gender Differences in Achilles Tendon Ruptures-A Retrospective Study and a Review of the Literature. J Foot Ankle Surg 2024:S1067-2516(24)00087-5. [PMID: 38763172 DOI: 10.1053/j.jfas.2024.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Achilles tendon ruptures are common injuries typically sustained during sport with higher incidence in men, though little is understood regarding sex-specific risk factors or outcomes following injury management. This cross-sectional clinical study and systematic review aimed to examine sex-specific Achilles tendon rupture incidence and outcomes following intervention. This study included patients who sustained a rupture between 2011-2021, were ≥18 years old, and who had a minimum follow-up of at least six months, and evaluated age, sex, sport involvement, mechanism of injury, and postoperative complications and revision. Separately, a systematic literature review in the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases was performed. A total of 705 male and 158 female patients were included in this retrospective study. 71.1% of men and 52.5% of women sustained a sports-related rupture (p < .001), with sport involvement demonstrating a positive correlation with revision rate (coefficient = 0.09, p = .02). A total of 21 studies with 250,907 patients (87,514 male, 35,792 female) were included in the systematic review. All studies revealed an increased incidence of ATR in men. Functional outcomes were worse in women, and female sex was an independent risk factor for postoperative complications and need for revision surgery. This study demonstrated a higher incidence of sports-related ATR in men than women, likely related to their higher ball sport participation. Although the retrospective analysis did not find a significant difference in complication or revision rates, the systematic review demonstrates poorer functional outcomes, with increased likelihood for postoperative complication and revision surgery in women as compared to men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayden Hartman
- DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Knoxville, TN.
| | - Alexis Cacace
- Foot and Ankle Research and Innovation Lab (FARIL), Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Hadley Leatherman
- Foot and Ankle Research and Innovation Lab (FARIL), Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Soheil Ashkani-Esfahani
- Foot and Ankle Research and Innovation Lab (FARIL), Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Foot and Ankle Center, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Newton Wellesley Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Daniel Guss
- Foot and Ankle Research and Innovation Lab (FARIL), Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Foot and Ankle Center, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Newton Wellesley Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Gregory Waryasz
- Foot and Ankle Research and Innovation Lab (FARIL), Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Foot and Ankle Center, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Newton Wellesley Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Christopher W DiGiovanni
- Foot and Ankle Research and Innovation Lab (FARIL), Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Foot and Ankle Center, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Newton Wellesley Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Arianna L Gianakos
- Foot and Ankle Research and Innovation Lab (FARIL), Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yale Medicine, Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, New Haven, CT
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Murphy MC, Green B, Sancho Amundarain I, de Vos RJ, Rio EK. Are we asking the right questions to people with Achilles tendinopathy? The best questions to distinguish mild versus severe disability to improve your clinical management. Phys Ther Sport 2024; 67:54-60. [PMID: 38593625 DOI: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2024.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Determine the capacity of individual items on the Tendinopathy Severity Assessment - Achilles (TENDINS-A), Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS), and Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment - Achilles (VISA-A) to differentiate patients with mild and severe tendon-related disability in order to provide clinicians the best questions when they are consulting patients with Achilles tendinopathy. DESIGN Cross-sectional. PARTICIPANTS Seventy participants with Achilles tendinopathy (61.4% mid-portion only, 31.4% insertional only, 7.2% both). OUTCOME MEASURES The discrimination index was determined for each TENDINS-A, FAOS, and VISA-A item to determine if items could discriminate between mild and severe disability. A Guttman analysis for polytomous items was conducted. RESULTS All 62 tems from the TENDINS-A, FAOS, and VISA-A were ranked with the best items relating to pain with physical tendon loading, time for pain to settle following aggravating activities and time for the tendon to 'warm-up' following inactivity. CONCLUSIONS Pain with loading the Achilles tendon, time for pain to settle following aggravating activity, as well as time taken for the tendon symptoms to subside after prolonged sitting or sleeping are the best questions indicative of the severity of disability in patients with Achilles tendinopathy. These questions can assist clinicians with assessing baseline severity and monitoring treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myles C Murphy
- Nutrition & Health Innovation Research Institute, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Western Australia, Australia; School of Health Sciences, The University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia.
| | - Brady Green
- School of Health Sciences, The University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia; School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Igor Sancho Amundarain
- Deusto Physical TherapIker Group, Physical Therapy Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Deusto, Donostia - San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Robert-Jan de Vos
- Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ebonie K Rio
- La Trobe Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia; The Australian Ballet, Southbank, Victoria, Australia; Victorian Institute of Sport, Albert Park, Victoria, Australia
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Cooper MT. Common Painful Foot and Ankle Conditions: A Review. JAMA 2023; 330:2285-2294. [PMID: 38112812 DOI: 10.1001/jama.2023.23906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Importance Morton neuroma, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendinopathy are foot and ankle conditions that are associated with pain and disability, but they can respond to nonoperative treatment. Observations Morton neuroma, consisting of interdigital neuronal thickening and fibrosis, is characterized by burning pain in the ball of the foot and numbness or burning pain that may radiate to the affected toes (commonly the third and fourth toes). First-line nonoperative therapy consists of reducing activities that cause pain, orthotics, and interdigital corticosteroid injection; however, approximately 30% of patients may not respond to conservative treatment. Plantar fasciitis accounts for more than 1 million patient visits per year in the US and typically presents with plantar heel pain. Fifteen years after diagnosis, approximately 44% of patients continue to have pain. First-line nonoperative therapy includes stretching of the plantar fascia and foot orthotics, followed by extracorporeal shockwave therapy, corticosteroid injection, or platelet-rich plasma injection. Midportion Achilles tendinopathy presents with pain approximately 2 to 6 cm proximal to the Achilles insertion on the heel. The primary nonoperative treatment involves eccentric strengthening exercises, but extracorporeal shockwave therapy may be used. Conclusions and Relevance Morton neuroma, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendinopathy are painful foot and ankle conditions. First-line therapies are activity restriction, orthotics, and corticosteroid injection for Morton neuroma; stretching and foot orthotics for plantar fasciitis; and eccentric strengthening exercises for Achilles tendinopathy.
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Alabau-Dasi R, Dominguez-Maldonado G, Gijon-Nogueron G, Ortega-Avila AB, Delacroix S. How susceptible are our Achilles Tendons? Sonoanatomical assessment. A cross-sectional study. J Tissue Viability 2023; 32:572-576. [PMID: 37722941 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtv.2023.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE the aim of this study is to observe whether there are ultrasound changes between men and women in the Achilles tendon at rest, at maximum passive force is applied and during walking. MATERIAL AND METHODS it was a cross-sectional study involving 27 healthy young participants recruited as volunteers between April to July 2022. A variety of data was recorded: (age, Body Mass Index, sex, smoking, current injury status, allergies, medications, previous surgeries, type of sport, and number of weekly workouts) and ultrasound measurements at rest and at passive force (Cross Sectional Area Achilles Tendon length, tendon thickness, Cross Sectional Area and pennation angle of the soleus muscle to the Achilles Tendon). RESULTS women demonstrated a statistically significant lower proximal and median thickness both at rest (4.5 vs 5.1 mm with p < 0.001 for proximal thickness; 4.4 vs 5.3 mm with p < 0.001 for median thickness) as well as during maximum eccentric contraction (4.3 vs 4.8 mm with p=<0.001 for proximal thickness; 4.1 vs 4.8 mm with p < 0.001 for median thickness). CONCLUSION there are significant sonoanatomical differences in vivo Achilles tendon between men and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Alabau-Dasi
- Universidad de Malaga, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Departamento de Enfermería y Podología, 29071, Malaga, Spain.
| | - Gabriel Dominguez-Maldonado
- Universidad de Malaga, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Programa de Doctorado, Malaga, Spain; Universidad de Sevilla, Departamento de Podología, Spain.
| | - Gabriel Gijon-Nogueron
- Universidad de Malaga, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Departamento de Enfermería y Podología, 29071, Malaga, Spain; Universidad de Malaga, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Programa de Doctorado, Malaga, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA platform BIONAND, Malaga, Spain.
| | - Ana Belen Ortega-Avila
- Universidad de Malaga, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Departamento de Enfermería y Podología, 29071, Malaga, Spain; Universidad de Malaga, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Programa de Doctorado, Malaga, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina-IBIMA platform BIONAND, Malaga, Spain.
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Sneed D, Wong C. Platelet-rich plasma injections as a treatment for Achilles tendinopathy and plantar fasciitis in athletes. PM R 2023; 15:1493-1506. [PMID: 36929699 DOI: 10.1002/pmrj.12965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections represent a growing interest in the use of biologic therapies for treatment of musculoskeletal injuries. One possible application of PRP is in the management of overuse injuries commonly experienced by athletes. The aim of this review is to evaluate and summarize existing evidence regarding the efficacy of PRP in the treatment of Achilles tendinopathy and plantar fasciitis in athletes. Although many lower quality single-armed studies have demonstrated clinical improvement in athletes treated for Achilles tendinopathy with PRP, higher quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have shown no clear benefit in athletes. Existing data suggest PRP significantly improves clinical outcomes for plantar fasciitis in the general population, but very few studies and no RCTs are available that specifically analyze outcomes in athletic populations. More research is needed to evaluate how platelet concentration, leukocyte and erythrocyte presence, and sport type may interact to affect clinical outcomes in athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin Sneed
- Central Virginia VA Health Care System, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Carmen Wong
- Central Virginia VA Health Care System, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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Stania M, Pawłowski M, Marszałek W, Juras G, Słomka KJ, Król P. A preliminary investigation into the impact of shock wave therapy and sonotherapy on postural control of stepping tasks in patients with Achilles tendinopathy. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1157335. [PMID: 37332988 PMCID: PMC10272772 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1157335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The outcomes of physical therapy are commonly assessed with subjective scales and questionnaires. Hence, a continuous search to identify diagnostic tests that would facilitate objective assessment of symptom reduction in those patients with Achilles tendinopathy who undergo mechanotherapy. The main aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of shock wave and ultrasound treatments, using objective posturographic assessment during step-up and step-down initiation. Materials and methods The patients with non-insertional Achilles tendinopathy and pain lasting for more than 3 months were randomly assigned to one of the experimental groups, i.e., radial shock wave therapy (RSWT), ultrasound therapy, or placebo ultrasound. All groups also received deep friction massage as the primary therapy. The transitional locomotor task was performed with the affected and unaffected limb in random order, on two force platforms under two conditions (step-up and step-down). The recording of center of foot pressure displacements was divided into three phases: quiet standing before step-up/step-down, transit, and quiet standing until measurement completion. Pre-intervention measurements were performed and then short-term follow-ups at weeks 1 and 6 post-therapy. Results The three-way repeated measures ANOVA showed few statistically significant two-factor interactions between therapy type, time point of measurement and the type of the locomotor task. Significant increases in postural sway were observed in the entire study population throughout the follow-up period. Three-way ANOVAs revealed a group effect (shock wave vs. ultrasound) on almost all variables of the quiet standing phase prior to step-up/step-down initiation. Overall, postural stability before the step-up and step-down tasks appeared to be more efficient in patients who had undergone RSWT compared to the ultrasound group. Conclusion Objective posturographic assessment during step-up and step-down initiation did not demonstrate therapeutic superiority of any of the three therapeutic interventions used in patients with non-insertional Achilles tendinopathy.Clinical Trial Registration: The trial was prospectively registered in the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (no. ACTRN12617000860369; registration date: 9.06.2017).
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Verges J, Martínez N, Pascual A, Bibas M, Santiña M, Rodas G. Psychosocial and individual factors affecting Quality of Life (QoL) in patients suffering from Achilles tendinopathy: a systematic review. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2022; 23:1114. [PMID: 36544133 PMCID: PMC9768977 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-022-06090-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achilles tendinopathy (AT) is a joint condition that causes functional restrictions and pain. This condition negatively impacts patients' social connectedness and psychological well-being, reducing their quality of life (QoL). This review aims to summarise the current information on QoL in patients suffering from AT from different angles: compared to a healthy population, reported individual factors that influence it and the effects of some AT interventions on QoL. METHODS A systematic review was conducted at PubMed, Cochrane, Google Scholar, and PsycINFO using tendinopathy and QoL-related keywords up to November 2021. Articles were included if they compared QoL to demographic factors such as age or gender, lifestyle factors (physical activity levels), comorbidity factors (diabetes, obesity), and/or a control group. RESULTS Three hundred twenty-nine articles were reviewed; 23 met the inclusion criteria. SF-36, EQ-5D, and VISA-A were the most common instrument used. Patients with AT reported low QoL when compared to no AT population. When women were compared to men, women reported worse QoL. The patients who participated in different exercise programs (strengthening and stretching) showed improvements in QoL. Surgical AT intervention improved QoL, although results varied by age. CONCLUSION AT has a substantial impact on QoL. In AT patients, QoL is also influenced by specific individual factors, including gender and physical activity. Exercise, education, and surgical treatment improve QoL. We suggest more research on AT patients to better understand the aspects leading to poor QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josep Verges
- Osteoarthritis Foundation International OAFI, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nina Martínez
- Osteoarthritis Foundation International OAFI, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aina Pascual
- Osteoarthritis Foundation International OAFI, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marco Bibas
- Osteoarthritis Foundation International OAFI, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manel Santiña
- Sociedad Española de Calidad Asistencial SECA, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Gil Rodas
- grid.498566.00000 0001 0805 9654Football Club Barcelona FCB, Barcelona, Spain
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