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Eccentric training programs for infrapatellar tendinopathy: New strategies for an old problem

Abstract:

Paralell with the improved knowledge on the pathophysiology of patellar tendinopathy, new treatment strategies are expected to emerge. 46 male adults clinically diagnosed and imaging confirmed patellar tendinopathy underwent a conservative treatment based on cryotherapy, isometric and eccentric exercises as well as stretching. They were randomly divided into group A (Standard squat program; n=23) and B (30° decline eccentric program; n=23). Eccentric program consisted of 3 sets of 15 repetitions twice a day for 16 weeks. Patients were instructed to perform it with the trunk upright, by slowly flexing the knee to 90° of flexion and returning to starting position using the non-injuried leg. Subjetives (100 mm Visual Analogue Scale [VAS]) and objectives (ultrasonography and return to pre-injury activity) variables were evaluated. We may conclude conservative treatment based on decline eccentric program showed better results than standard squat program. However, since the number of participants was low, these data should be interpreted with caution.