Noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy (NAT) is a common complaint among gym enthusiasts. It's a condition where the Achilles tendon, located at the back of your ankle, becomes overloaded and inflamed. This can lead to persistent pain, stiffness, and difficulty performing activities that put stress on the Achilles, like jumping or running.
While traditional physical therapy offers relief for NAT, a recent study explored how adding a non-invasive treatment called Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), StemWave, can potentially accelerate the healing process and improve long-term outcomes.
The Study: Short- and Intermediate- Term Results of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy for Noninsertional Achilles Tendinopathy
This research involved 50 patients diagnosed with chronic NAT. The participants were divided into two groups:
The physical therapy program consisted of eccentric strengthening exercises and stretching for four weeks. During this period, both groups received either ESWT or sham ESWT once per week.
ESWT Explained: How Does it Work?
ESWT utilizes a device that generates high-energy sound waves directed at the injured tissue. These sound waves are thought to stimulate the healing process by:
The Results: Significant Pain Reduction and Improved Function
Both groups experienced significant improvements in pain and function after four weeks of treatment. However, the group receiving ESWT showed dramatically greater benefits compared to the sham group. Here's a breakdown of the findings:
Long-Term Outcomes: Sustained Relief with ESWT
The researchers followed up with the participants approximately 16 months after the initial treatment. While both groups experienced some increase in pain and decrease in function compared to their immediate post-treatment state,there was a crucial difference:
This suggests that the positive effects of ESWT for NAT are long-lasting.
The Takeaway: Can ESWT Be Right for You?
This study provides strong evidence that combining ESWT with conventional physical therapy can significantly improve short-term and long-term outcomes for individuals suffering from Noninsertional Achilles Tendinopathy.
Stay Active, Stay Informed!
By incorporating the latest advancements in physical therapy like ESWT, gym-goers can potentially recover from Noninsertional Achilles Tendinopathy faster and get back to their workouts with improved strength and function. Remember, consulting a healthcare professional is always the first step for managing any injury.
Important Note: It is crucial to consult with a qualified medical provider to determine if ESWT is an appropriate treatment option for your specific case. They can assess your condition, create a personalized treatment plan, and guide you through the recovery process.
REFERENCE
Abdelkader NA, Helmy MNK, Fayaz NA, Saweeres ESB. Short- and Intermediate-Term Results of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy for Noninsertional Achilles Tendinopathy. Foot Ankle Int. 2021 Jun;42(6):788-797. doi: 10.1177/1071100720982613. Epub 2021 Jan 15. PMID: 33451253.
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