The Effectiveness of Eccentric-Concentric Training and Isometric Contractions on Pain and Disability in Achilles Tendinopathy: A Case Report

Purpose: Many patients with Achilles Tendinopathy do not respond to eccentric training. The aim of the present case report is to find out the effect of eccentric concentric training of gastrocnemius and soleus combined with isometric contraction of gastrocnemius and static stretching exercises of gastrocnemius and soleus on pain and disability in a patient experiencing Achilles Tendinopathy. Methods: A patient with unilateral Achilles Tendinopathy for 6 months was included in the present study. The patient followed a supervised exercise five times per week for 6 weeks consisting of, isometric gastrocnemius exercise, and slow progressive eccentric concentric training of gastrocnemius and soleus and static stretching exercises of gastrocnemius and soleus. The programme was individualized on the basis of the patient’s description of pain experienced during the procedure. The VICTORIAN INSTITUTE OF SPORTS ASSESSMENT – ACHILLES QUESTIONNAIRE was used to evaluate the patient at baseline, at the end of treatment (week 6), and 1 month (week 10) after the end of treatment. Results: At the end of the treatment and at the follow – up there was a decrease in pain and an increase in function. Conclusions: The results of the present study suggest that the combination of isometric gastrocnemius exercise, slow progressive eccentric concentric training of gastrocnemius and soleus and static stretching exercises of gastrocnemius and soleus can produce significant improvements in terms of pain and disability in Achilles Tendinopathy.