Effect of Myofacial Release vs. Eccentric Resistance on Pain, ROM and Functional Disability on Achilles Tendonitis

Tendonitis refers to inflammation of a tendon in response to injury or disease. It causes pain, irritation, and swelling, especially following periods of activity. Achilles tendinitis (AT) is a prevalent condition across the lifespan in both active and sedentary people, and can occur in the mid tendon, tendon insertion to the calcaneus and peritendon.

Achilles tendinitis is caused by overuse of the ankle and is closely related to an individuals activity level. In the adult population (21-60 yrs old), the incidence rate is 2.35 persons per 1000. It has been reported in approximately 7%-9% of professional athletes and 6%-18% of regular runners.

People with Achilles tendinitis typically report symptoms of pain and stiffness upon weight bearing after prolonged rest and at the start of physical activity, which reduces as the activity continues . These symptoms lead to impaired performance. In more severe cases, pain and disability can be persistent with functional activities such as walking.

Physical therapists have used different methods to maintain and also to increase joint motion, and prevent deformity and dysfunction resulting from the muscle shortening. The intension of the physical therapist is to lengthen the musculo-tendinous unit, supporting connective tissue and increase the range of motion.

Soft tissue treatments are widely used for AT, but strong scientific evidence to support those treatments is lacking. The literature provides some evidence that heavy pressure and deep massage might have some positive effect on chronic tendonitis by promoting healing.

Eccentric training can be effective in the rehabilitation of patients with Achilles tendonitis. The mechanism behind these results is not clear. However, there is evidence that tendons are able to respond to repeated forces by altering their structure and composition, and, thus, their mechanical properties change

Inclusion criteria

• Both male and female.
• Age limit 25-50 year.
• Diagnosed patients by orthopedic surgeon.
• Achilles tendon symptoms (pain) present in one limb for a minimum of two months.
• Report having pain rated at least 3 out of 10 on a numerical rating scale (NRS-11).
• Be able to walk household distances (more than 50 m) without the aid of a walker, crutches or can

Exclusion criteria

• History of Pregnanc.
• Having history of rheumatoid arthritis or generalized polyarthritis.
• Pervious history of Achilles tendon rupture or surgery i.e arthrodesis , club foot surgery
• History of hind foot fracture, or leg-length discrepancy of more than one-half inch.
• Taken any manual therapy in last 3 month.
• Contraindication to myofacial releas i.e skin burn or disease