Effectiveness of Isometric vs. Eccentric Exercise in Chronic Achilles Tendinopathy

Effectiveness of Eccentric Exercise Compared to Isometric Exercise in Athletes With Chronic Achilles Tendinopathy

This is a prospective single blinded randomised controlled trial with a 12-week intervention period and a half-year follow-up period. The main purpose is to determine the effects of isometric exercise on mechanical, morphological and functional tendon properties versus eccentric exercise in chronic Achilles tendinopathy.

This research project was funded by means of the "Bundesinstitut für Sportwissenschaft" based on a resolution of the German Federal Parliament.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Chronic (3 months or more) condition of unilateral Achilles tendinopathy confirmed by a medical doctor based on ultrasound
• age 18-60
• male
• VISA-A Score of at least 80

Exclusion Criteria:

• bilateral tendinopathy
• any systemic or inflammatory diseases (i. e. Diabetes, Arthritis)
• surgery on lower extremities in the past
• corticoid injections in the last 12 months