Electrical Dry Needling + Physical Therapy for Achilles Tendinopathy
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine which treatment is more effective for Achilles tendinopathy, a condition causing pain in the tendon above the heel, especially during running or jumping. It compares two approaches: one using only physical therapy techniques like exercises and stretching, and the other adding electrical dry needling (a technique involving thin needles and mild electrical currents) to the same physical therapy methods. Individuals who have experienced Achilles pain for at least three months without recent physical therapy or other treatments may be suitable candidates. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore innovative treatment combinations for Achilles tendinopathy.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that dry needling is generally well-tolerated. In studies, patients have responded well to this treatment, with only minor side effects reported. Some individuals might experience temporary pain or bruising at the needle insertion site, but serious complications are rare. Dry needling involves using thin needles to stimulate muscles and relieve pain.
The combination of specific exercises, stretching, and hands-on therapy is also well-known for its safety. Physical therapists commonly use these methods, which usually do not cause major side effects. Most people might experience some soreness, but it is typically mild and temporary.
Overall, both dry needling and the exercise/stretching approach are considered safe for treating conditions like Achilles tendinopathy.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about electrical dry needling combined with physical therapy for Achilles tendinopathy because it offers a novel approach to treatment. Unlike standard care options like eccentric exercises and manual therapy, electrical dry needling introduces electrical stimulation directly to the affected tissues, potentially speeding up the healing process. This method could enhance tissue repair and reduce pain more effectively than traditional methods alone. By integrating electrical dry needling with conventional physical therapy, there is hope for improved outcomes and faster recovery times for patients struggling with this common tendon issue.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for achilles tendinopathy?
In this trial, participants will join one of two treatment arms. One arm will receive Electrical Dry Needling combined with conventional physical therapy, which includes exercises, hands-on therapy, and stretching. Studies have found that this combination reduces pain and improves function in patients, as the needling technique may help stop ongoing damage and promote healing. The other arm will focus on conventional physical therapy alone, involving specific exercises, stretching, and hands-on therapy. These exercises build strength and flexibility, aiding recovery. Both methods have evidence supporting their effectiveness, but adding electrical dry needling might offer extra benefits.24678
Who Is on the Research Team?
James Dunning, DPT
Principal Investigator
American Academy of Manipulative Therapy
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults over 18 with Achilles tendinopathy, experiencing pain for at least 3 months, who haven't had related treatments in the last 6 months. Suitable for those without previous Achilles surgery, significant foot instability or conditions that rule out electro-needling like pregnancy.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either electrical dry needling with eccentric exercise, stretching, and manual therapy or just eccentric exercise, stretching, and manual therapy
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in Achilles tendinopathy severity, pain, and foot and ankle ability
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Eccentric Exercise, Stretching and Manual Therapy
- Electric Dry Needling, Eccentric Exercise, Stretching and Manual Therapy
Eccentric Exercise, Stretching and Manual Therapy is already approved in European Union, United States, Canada for the following indications:
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Musculoskeletal injuries
- Chronic pain management
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Musculoskeletal injuries
- Chronic pain management
- Rehabilitation
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Musculoskeletal injuries
- Chronic pain management
- Sports injuries
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Alabama Physical Therapy & Acupuncture
Lead Sponsor
Universidad Rey Juan Carlos
Collaborator