Physiotherapy Treatment for Chronic Achilles Tendinopathy

A Double-blind Randomized Controlled Trial of Physiotherapy Treatment for Chronic Achilles Tendinopathy

Laser treatment with the proper dosage has been found effective in the treatment of chronic Achilles tendinopathy, and animal research indicate that a combination of cryotherapy followed by LLLT could yield an even better result.

Thus, the main purpose of this project is to test if the addition of low level laser therapy can enhance the treatment result of exercise and cryotherapy in patients with chronic Achilles tendinopathy, yielding less pain and higher function.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Achilles tendinopathy with a minimum duration of three months, pathological appearance of the Achilles tendon with thickened tendon and structural changes of the tendons matrix.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Cortisone injection within the last 6 months, systemic inflammatory disease, previous suture/surgery of the Achilles tendon, pregnancy or familial hypercholesterolemia.