Achilles tendinopathy (AT) poses a significant challenge for athletes, particularly runners, due to its persistent pain and limited treatment options. However, a recent study sheds light on the effectiveness of short-term treatment strategies in managing this condition.

Conducted by Frank Mayer and colleagues (2007), the study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of common therapeutic approaches over a concise period of four weeks. The research enrolled 31 male runners with unilateral, untreated AT, characterized by a weekly mileage exceeding 32 kilometers.

Participants were divided into three groups: those undergoing physiotherapy (P), individuals fitted with custom semirigid insoles (I), and a control group receiving no treatment. The physiotherapy regimen comprised ten sessions involving deep-friction massage, pulsed ultrasound therapy, ice application, and sensory motor training.

Before and after the four-week intervention, all participants underwent assessments, including a treadmill test and plantar flexion strength exercises. Subjective pain levels were evaluated using the Pain Disability Index and Pain Experience Scale, while strength performance was measured through peak torque analysis.

Results revealed a notable reduction in pain, with levels dropping to less than 50% of baseline values after both physiotherapy and insole use (p<0.05). Impressively, over 89% of subjects in the insole group and 55% in the physiotherapy group experienced a pain reduction exceeding 50%.

Furthermore, participants in both the physiotherapy and insole groups demonstrated increased eccentric plantar flexion peak torques following the treatment period, indicative of improved strength.

In conclusion, this study suggests that a significant proportion of individuals suffering from Achilles tendinopathy can experience substantial pain relief after just four weeks of tailored, non-surgical interventions such as physiotherapy or the use of custom semirigid insoles. These findings provide valuable insights for clinicians and athletes alike, emphasizing the potential benefits of short-term treatment strategies in managing AT and facilitating early return to activity.

Reference: Mayer, F., Hirschmüller, A., Müller, S., Schuberth, M., & Baur, H. (2007). Effects of short-term treatment strategies over 4 weeks in Achilles tendinopathy. British journal of sports medicine, 41(7), e6-e6.