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Isolated gastrocnemius recession offers sustained pain relief for chronic Achilles' tendinopathy
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Patients with chronic Achilles’ tendinopathy experienced significant and sustained pain relief after isolated gastrocnemius recession, according to recently published data.
Researchers used a VAS to assess pain in 13 patients with unilateral Achilles’ tendinopathy who received a gastrocnemius recession and 10 matched-control participants. Additionally, the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure to evaluate patient-reported function in activities of daily living and sports. The researchers also asked patients about their satisfaction with the results of the gastrocnemius recession and assessed ankle plantar flexion peak torque at 60° per second and 120° per second. Limb symmetry and strength differences were assessed between the groups using appropriate t-tests.
At a mean follow-up duration of 18 months, results showed gastrocnemius recession provided significant pain relief. Between-group differences were observed in Foot and Ankle Ability Measure outcomes with regard to activities of daily living and sports subscales, with going up hills, climbing stairs, running and jumping reported as the most challenging. Overall, the researchers found 11 of the 13 patients in the Achilles’ tendon group were satisfied with treatment.
Although side-to-side strength comparisons showed no differences in 60° per second, significant differences were observed at 120° per second, according to the researchers. However, the involved limb and the control limb were both observed to reach a similar peak torque. – by Casey Tingle
Disclosures: Nawoczenski received grants from the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society. Please see the full study for a list of all other authors’ relevant financial disclosures.
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