Actively Recruiting
Effect of Foot Positioning During a 12-week Supervised Training Program on Achilles Tendon Mechanics and Function in Mid-portion Achilles Tendinopathy
Led by KU Leuven · Updated on 2026-06-03
60
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
N/A
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
K
KU Leuven
Lead Sponsor
U
Universitaire Ziekenhuizen KU Leuven
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
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.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Effect of Foot Position During Rehabilitation of Achilles Tendinopathy on Tendon Mechanics and Symptoms.
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Voluntary written informed consent obtained
- Age between 18 and 65 years old
- Body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 30
- History of intermittent Achilles tendon pain lasting more than 3 consecutive weeks within the past 6 months
- Palpable focal thickening of the Achilles tendon
- Pain originating from the Achilles tendon on palpation and during loading activities such as running or jumping
- Sonographic evidence of tendinopathy including focal thickening and hypoechogenicity consistent with tendinopathy diagnosis
You will not qualify if you...
History of severe allergic reactions to study medication Currently pregnant or breastfeeding Recent participation in another clinical trial within the last 30 days Presence of uncontrolled medical conditions that could affect safety
AI-Screening
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Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
Duration - 12 weeks
Participants perform a 12-week progressive, load-based exercise program for Achilles Tendinopathy with either a toes-out or neutral foot position. Exercises are done daily with weekly supervised sessions to ensure correct execution and allow adjustments based on tolerance.
Daily exercises with weekly supervised visits
Duration - 12 weeks
Participants are monitored for clinical outcomes, symptoms, physical activity, and tendon function for up to 12 weeks after completing the treatment program.
Regular assessments at weeks 3, 6, 9, 15, 18, 21, and 24
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
KU Leuven
Leuven, Vlaams-Brabant, Belgium, 3000
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
L
Laura Lecompte, Msc
M
Marion Crouzier, PhD
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
SINGLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
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