Using Shear Wave Elastography to Study and Monitor Tendon Health and Healing in Tendinopathy

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying tendinopathy, a common condition causing chronic tendon pain and degeneration, to understand the differences between normal and symptomatic tendon states using Shear Wave Elastography SWE. This observational study aims to compare the viscoelastic properties of tendons in people with and without symptoms and to evaluate tendon healing after standard treatments. The study includes moderate-to-severe chronic tendinopathy cases lasting more than six months. Participants undergo ultrasound imaging using SWE to examine tendons such as the Achilles, patellar, quadriceps, epicondylar, and rotator cuff. The study includes two groups asymptomatic volunteers with lower extremity pain but no tendon involvement, and symptomatic volunteers diagnosed with tendinopathy. Some participants may have repeated imaging for up to one year to monitor tendon healing following standard care. During the study, participants will have tendon imaging sessions lasting about 20 minutes each. The research team will measure tendon properties at baseline and track changes in tendon healing over 3, 6, and 12 months. They will also assess functional scores related to Achilles and patellar tendons and foot and ankle disability at multiple timepoints. This detailed follow-up helps understand tendon function and recovery over time.

Assessing the Tendons With Shear Wave Elastography