Evaluation of the Course and Effectiveness of Conservative Therapy in Patients With Achilles Tendinopathy

Inclusion Criteria: * the patient shows symptoms of Achilles tendinopathy (pain, swelling and dysfunction in the area of Achilles tendon), which at least partially limit his quality of life during normal or sporting activities, * the patient is in the age group of 18-60 years, * the patient has difficulties in only one lower limb; the second, asymptomatic limb will be considered the reference, * the patient is not aware of any mechanical damage to the tendon in symptomatic limb in the past (e.g. partial or complete rupture as a result of an injury), * the patient has not undergone any treatment aimed at AS in the last 3 months (surgery, corticoid application, plasma therapy, shock waves, physiotherapy, etc.), objective US examination of AS shows structural changes (expansion, neovascularization, focal hypoechoic areas, etc.). Exclusion Criteria: * patient has been diagnosed with a rheumatic disease or a disease of the central nervous system * patient has any condition which is contraindication for ESWT application * patient is aware of mechanical damage to the Achilles tendon as a result of an injury in the past.