Astym® Compared Eccentric Exercise for Chronic Mid-substance Achilles Tendinopathy

Stopped early · Not applicable

Conditions studied: Achilles Tendon Pain

In brief

The purpose of this study is to compare the changes in pain and self-perceived function between two different treatments for Achilles tendinopathy: the Astym® protocol (a form of soft tissue mobilization using instruments) and a specific exercise protocol that involves strengthening the calf and Achilles tendon. Astym® (A-stim) is not an acronym, but rather stands for "A Stimulation" of the body's healing response, describing the physiologic process which occurs with Astym treatment. Astym is the trademark name of a non-invasive treatment where instruments are applied topically to locate unhealthy soft tissue, and to transfer mild to moderate pressure to the underlying soft tissue structures. The aim of Astym treatment is to eliminate scar tissue and stimulate tissue regeneration. Both the principal investigator and co-investigator have been trained and certified in administering the Astym treatment. The specific exercise protocol will involve exercises that strengthen the Achilles and calf through eccentric exercise. Eccentric exercise is a form of exercise where the benefit comes from applying a controlled lengthening stress to the muscle and tendon.

Key facts

Study ID

NCT01902433

Run by

Emily Slaven, PT, PhD

People needed

50

Starts

2013-08-01

Expected to finish

2017-01-01

Last updated by the study team

2017-01-24

Who can join

Age: 20 and older, up to 60. Sex: any. Healthy volunteers: not accepted.

You may qualify if…

• Pain for 3 months or longer in the mid portion of only one Achilles tendon.
• Must read, speak and understand English

You may not qualify if…

• Previous surgery to the Achilles tendon that is currently painful
• An injection into the Achilles tendon in the previous 4 weeks
• Have symptoms in both Achilles tendons concurrently
• Have taken fluoroquinolone antibiotics in the past 6 months

Where it is running

• IU Health — Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
• Utah Physical Therapy — Lehi, Utah, United States

Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov

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