Achilles Tendinopathy

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.

Researchers are evaluating the effects of a 6-day low-dose oral methylprednisolone course, known as Medrol Dosepak, on pain, nausea, and opioid use in patients undergoing foot and ankle surgeries. The study also aims to monitor any complications and patient-reported outcomes following surgery. This research addresses the opioid epidemic by exploring ways to reduce opioid exposure through multimodal pain management, focusing on forefoot, ankle, and Achilles surgeries.

Researchers are evaluating patient outcomes and functional scores before and after an all-arthroscopic Brostrom repair for lateral ankle ligament injuries. This trial compares the use of a suture anchor construct alone versus suture anchors combined with the BioBrace Implant to understand differences in recovery and function. The study is prospective, randomized, and single-center, focusing on early postoperative results and safety. Participants will be assigned to one of two groups: a control group receiving the standard arthroscopic Brostrom repair using suture anchors only, and a treatment group receiving the same repair augmented with the BioBrace Implant. The procedures are performed using an all-arthroscopic Brostrom technique. Clinical evaluations are scheduled preoperatively and at multiple points postoperatively, including 1, 3, and 6 weeks, and 3, 6, and 12 months. During the study, participants will complete various patient-reported outcome measures to assess pain, function, activity levels, and safety following surgery. These assessments include the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society score, Foot Function Index, Visual Analog Scale, and Karlsson-Peterson score at all scheduled visits. The study involves close monitoring from before surgery through one year after the procedure to track recovery and outcomes.

Researchers are evaluating blood flow restriction (BFR) therapy as a way to help people recover from Achilles injuries. This therapy involves partially restricting blood flow in a limb during low load resistance exercises and is being compared to standard physical therapy. The study is randomized and aims to assess how BFR therapy influences muscle strength and pain in patients with tendon injuries. Participants will be divided into two groups: one receiving standard physical therapy, and the other receiving BFR therapy using a blood pressure cuff controlled by a handheld device. The cuff is applied before exercise at a pressure set by the physical therapist, and it automatically deflates after a set time. Both groups perform their exercises during the treatment period. During the study, researchers will measure muscle strength and pain levels before and after therapy using standardized scales over a 12-month period. Participants will attend scheduled assessments to monitor progress and safety. The study is led by NYU Langone Health and includes adults aged 18 to 65 who intend to undergo physical therapy for Achilles injuries.

This research aims to compare two surgical techniques for treating iliopsoas tendinopathy caused by impingement between the iliopsoas tendon and the prosthetic cup in patients who have undergone total hip replacement. The study evaluates clinical improvement using the Oxford Hip Score measured at baseline, 2 months, and over 12 months after surgery. It is a randomized, single-blind, comparative trial conducted at a single center. Participants will undergo endoscopic tenotomy surgery of the iliopsoas tendon, performed either at the lesser trochanter or at the acetabular notch. Patients are randomly assigned to one of these two groups by drawing lots. The surgery is carried out under general anesthesia with standardized multimodal pain management, and all other surgical approaches and postoperative care remain consistent between groups. During the study, patients will be assessed with the Oxford Hip Score before surgery, at 2 months, and at more than 12 months after the procedure to measure clinical improvement. The study monitors patient outcomes and recovery following the surgery. Participation involves preoperative consultation, surgery, and follow-up assessments over at least one year to evaluate the treatment effect.

Researchers are evaluating whether an early plyometric exercise approach improves recovery compared to traditional heavy, slow resistance training in people with tendinopathies of the Achilles tendon, patellar tendon, or plantar fascia. These common conditions cause pain, reduced function, and stiffness, often leading to long recovery times and incomplete return to sports. The study aims to see if early plyometric exercises can improve jump function after 12 weeks and reduce re-injury rates after 52 weeks. The trial includes 120 participants aged 18 to 50 who regularly engage in running or jumping sports and have symptoms lasting at least three months. Participants are randomly assigned to two groups: one performs heavy slow resistance training alone, while the other combines this training with a progressive plyometric exercise program. Both groups exercise three times weekly for 12 weeks, with plyometric training progressing through three levels based on self-assessed readiness. Participants will be assessed at the start, after 12 weeks, and at 52 weeks. Tests include measuring jump function using a force platform, dynamic strength, jump height, and pain thresholds. Questionnaires will capture symptoms, exercise compliance, return to sport, adverse events, re-injury rates, and psychological readiness. The main measure is the change in plyometric quotient over 12 weeks, showing functional ability improvements.

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness and safety of OSTENIL4 TENDON in treating pain and limited movement caused by four tendon disorders: patella tendon, peroneal tendon, medial epicondylus humeri, and iliotibial band. This study takes place in real-life clinical settings to gather evidence on the device's use according to its instructions. Participants receive two injections of OSTENIL4 TENDON, which contains 2% sodium hyaluronate, given one week apart. This CE-certified device is intended for injection around or inside the tendon sheath. The study focuses on monitoring patients after these injections. During the study, participants will have their pain levels measured at the start and 12 weeks after treatment using a visual scale. Additional checks include functional ability, patient and investigator reports, and tendon condition at various points over 24 weeks. Safety will be closely tracked by recording any adverse events or device issues throughout the follow-up period, which lasts up to 24 weeks after treatment.

This research aims to develop and evaluate a specialized rehabilitation exercise program for adults with foot problems and tight calf muscles. It compares patients who choose minimally invasive ultrasound-guided surgery combined with rehabilitation to those who follow the rehabilitation program alone. The study focuses on differences in recovery of ankle movement and the return to sports and daily activities. Participants will be divided into two groups: one group will undergo a 12-week rehabilitation exercise program three times a week, while the other group will have minimally invasive gastrocnemius muscle surgery followed by a more intensive rehabilitation regimen three times daily for four weeks. Both groups receive the same rehabilitation protocol, with the surgical group starting exercises after surgery. Throughout the study, participants will have assessments before treatment, at two months, and six months to measure ankle movement, foot posture, pressure on the foot, pain, and function. Researchers will use gait analysis and baropodometric exams to evaluate progress. The study will compare outcomes between groups to understand the added impact of surgery combined with rehabilitation. The total study duration includes initial assessments and follow-ups over six months.

Researchers are evaluating how VKTRY carbon fiber insoles affect vertical jump and sprint performance in moderately active young men aged 18 to 30. The study focuses on explosive athletic tasks, aiming to see if these insoles improve mechanical efficiency and energy return during movement. This observational, cross-sectional study compares performance with and without the insoles to understand their impact on sports activities. Participants will perform countermovement jump (CMJ) and sprint tests twice: once wearing the VKTRY insoles and once without them. The study uses a randomized design to assign test order. The insoles are designed to provide rigidity and energy return, potentially enhancing jump height, flight time, sprint speed, and maximum running speed. Participants will also share their subjective experience using a Likert-type scale. During the study visit, participants will be assessed using the My Jump Lab app for objective measurements like jump height and sprint time. Researchers will monitor flight time, sprint time, and top speed, alongside athlete feedback on the insoles. The main outcome is the difference in jump height on the test day. Overall, the study aims to inform on the immediate effects of these insoles on athletic performance and perception in healthy men.

Researchers are studying the effects of focal extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) on adults with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) that cause muscle pain. The study aims to evaluate pain improvement after 5 weeks of treatment and at 1 and 3 months post-treatment. Secondary goals include assessing jaw movement, joint inflammation, quality of life, and the use of pain medication. Safety will be monitored by tracking any side effects throughout the study. The study involves two groups: one receiving real focal shock wave therapy applied weekly for 5 weeks to affected jaw muscles, and the other receiving placebo treatment with a dummy applicator. Both groups will also get guidance from a physiotherapist on habits, stretching, exercises, and ergonomic practices to improve quality of life. Follow-up evaluations will occur at 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment. Participants will undergo assessments including pain measurement using a Visual Analogue Scale, range of motion testing, ultrasound evaluation of inflammation, and questionnaires on quality of life. Jaw movement, joint noise, and pressure pain threshold will be recorded during treatment sessions and follow-ups. Researchers will also compare pain medication use before and after treatment. The total participation includes 5 weeks of treatment and multiple follow-up visits over several months.