Restricted accessResearch articleFirst published online 2024-9
Efficacy of ultrasound-guided galvanic electrolysis technique and physical therapy in patients with Achilles’ tendinopathy: A pilot randomised controlled trial
Ultrasound-guided galvanic electrolysis technique (USGET) is an innovative mini-invasive intervention with the potential to optimise outcomes in the treatment of Achille’s tendinopathy (AT).
OBJECTIVE:
The aim of this pilot study is to evaluate the efficacy of adding USGET to conventional eccentric exercise treatment in patients with chronic AT.
METHODS:
Inclusion criteria were patients with unilateral non-insertional AT, pain lasting 3 months, aged 25–60 years. Patients were randomised in two groups receiving the same physiotherapy treatment (2 sessions per week for 8 weeks). In addition, the experimental group received three USGET stimulations, one every 15 days. Outcome measures were assessment of Achilles tendinopathy severity using the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Achilles (VISA-A) and pain intensity using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Assessment points occurred at the onset of treatment (T0), its conclusion (T1), and subsequent follow-ups at one (T2) and two months (T3).
RESULTS:
Out of the 52 patients who met the study inclusion criteria, two participants withdrew from the study, resulting in a total of 50 subjects who completed the research. None of the parameters showed a different distribution at T1 ( 0.337). At T2, there was a statistical difference in VISA-A ( 0.010) and its subscales and VAS ( 0.002) in the USGET group. At T3, both groups improved with a statistical difference observed in VISA-A ( 0.001) and its subscales Pain ( 0.004), Function ( 0.003) and Sport ( 0.002), but the EG patients showed a greater improvement. No adverse events were reported.
CONCLUSION:
The effect of USGET combined with eccentric exercise appears to be a safe and effective technique for achieving pain relief and functional recovery in the medium term, supporting the integrated use of USGET as a rehabilitative treatment option for patients with chronic AT.
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