Impact of Foot Positioning During a 12-Week Exercise Program on Achilles Tendon Function and Symptoms in Adults with Mid-portion Achilles Tendinopathy

What this Trial Is About

Achilles tendinopathy is a common condition causing pain, swelling, and reduced function in the Achilles tendon, affecting sports participation and quality of life. Researchers are studying whether a 12-week load-based exercise program performed with an externally rotated foot position toes-out leads to different improvements in tendon mechanics, symptoms, and function compared to the same program performed with a neutral foot position. The study also aims to understand how daily physical activity patterns during and after rehabilitation relate to symptom and functional recovery over six months. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups one performing the 12-week exercise program with their feet rotated outward at a comfortable angle, and the other performing the same program with feet in a neutral position. The program includes daily exercises that progressively increase tendon loading, with new exercises introduced every four days and weekly supervised sessions to ensure proper technique and adjust as needed. Physical activity will be monitored daily for six months, covering the 12 weeks of training and 12 weeks of follow-up. During the study, participants will undergo ultrasound imaging to measure intra-tendinous sliding, clinical assessments using questionnaires for symptoms and quality of life, and functional tests like heel-rise and hopping to evaluate tendon function. These assessments occur before and after the 12-week program, with symptom and activity questionnaires repeated multiple times over 24 weeks. Researchers will also collect biomechanical data during exercises and conduct interviews after the program. The total participation period spans six months, with continuous monitoring of physical activity and detailed evaluations at specified intervals.

Effect of Foot Position During Rehabilitation of Achilles Tendinopathy on Tendon Mechanics and Symptoms.