NCT03968614 · Alabama Physical Therapy & Acupuncture
Electrical DN as an Adjunct to Eccentric Exercise, Stretching + MT for Achilles Tendinopathy
What this study is about
The purpose of this research is to compare two different approaches for treating patients with achilles tendinopathy: eccentric exercise, stretching and manual therapy VS Electric dry needling, eccentric exercise, stretching and manual therapy. Physical therapists commonly use all of these techniques to treat achilles tendinopathy.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this research is to compare two different approaches for treating patients with achilles tendinopathy: eccentric exercise, stretching and manual therapy VS Electric dry needling, eccentric exercise, stretching and manual therapy. Physical therapists commonly use all of these techniques to treat achilles tendinopathy. This study is attempting to find out if one treatment strategy is more effective than the other.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Adult \>18 years old that is able to speak English.
- Report of at least 3 months of Achilles pain clinically diagnosed as Achilles tendonitis or Achilles tendinopathy
- Patient has not had physical therapy, massage therapy, chiropractic treatment or injections for Achilles pain in the last 6 months:
- Diagnosis of noninsertional tendinopathy, defined as the following
- Subjective report of pain located 2-6 cm proximal to the insertion of Achilles tendon to the calcaneus, particularly with running or jumping
- Tenderness to palpation of the Achilles tendon while the clinician gently squeezes the tendon between the thumb and index finger in a proximal to distal direction
- Positive Arc Sign - Intratendinous swelling moves relative to the malleoli with the tendon during active dorsi/plantar Flexion
- Royal London Test - Tenderness to palpation decreases significantly or disappears with max dorsiflexion
Exclusion criteria
- Report of red flags to manual physical therapy to include: hypertension infection, diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, heart disease, stroke, chronic ischemia, edema, severe vascular disease, malignancy, etc.
- History of previous Achilles tendon surgery, ankle arthrodesis, hind foot fracture, or leg length discrepancy of more than one half inch.
- History of arthrosis or arthritis of the ankle and/or foot.
- History of significant ankle and/or foot instability
- Two or more positive neurologic signs consistent with nerve root compression, including any two of the following:
- Muscle weakness involving a major lower extremity muscle group
- Diminished lower extremity patella or Achilles tendon reflexes
- Diminished / absent sensation in any lower extremity dermatome
- Involvement in litigation or worker's compensation regarding foot pain
- Any condition that might contraindicate the use of electro-needling
- The patient is pregnant.
Where
- Columbia, South Carolina
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 18, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations