Extracorporeal shock wave therapy in the management of midsubstance achilles tendinopathy: The ASSERT database

Introduction: The present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) in patients suffering from midsubstance Achilles tendinopathy in both the short and middle term. Methods: Participants were recruited by different clinicians in the National Health Service (NHS) and private sector centres in the UK. All data were collected in a web-based database named ASSERT (Assessment of the Effectiveness of ESWT for Soft Tissue Injuries). The 84 participants (average age 54.30 y; range 23-77 y) were administered in a standardized ESWT protocol, and outcome measures relative to their specific condition and health status (VAS for pain perception, the VISA-A for the severity of the Achilles tendinopathy in daily life activities, and the 6 scores ofEuroQol 5D for quality of life) were collected at baseline, and again after 3, 6, 12 and 24 months following ESWT intervention. Results: There was a significant amelioration over time in 5 of the 8 analyzed outcomes (all with p <0.0001), namely VAS, VISA-A, and 3 EQ-5D domains (Mobility, Pain/Discomfort, and Usual Activities scores). Conclusion: ESWT showed beneficial effects on midsubstance Achilles tendinopathy over a 24 month follow-up period. Level of evidence: IV.