Eccentric Exercises Versus Heel Insole Lift for Achilles Tendinopathy in Football Players (NCT07360873) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
Eccentric Exercises Versus Heel Insole Lift for Achilles Tendinopathy in Football Players
Pakistan24 participantsStarted 2025-04-05
Plain-language summary
Achilles tendinopathy is a common overuse injury in football players and is associated with pain, stiffness, and reduced functional performance. Conservative treatment options such as eccentric calf muscle exercises and heel insole lifts are frequently used in rehabilitation; however, evidence comparing their effectiveness remains limited.
This randomized controlled trial compared the effects of eccentric calf muscle exercises and heel insole lifts on pain, ankle range of motion, and functional outcomes in male football players with Achilles tendinopathy. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two intervention groups. One group performed a structured eccentric calf muscle exercise program, while the other group used heel insole lifts during daily activities.
Outcomes related to pain intensity, functional ability, calf muscle performance, and ankle range of motion were assessed at baseline and after completion of a 12-week intervention period. The results of this study aim to support evidence-based rehabilitation strategies for the management of Achilles tendinopathy in football players.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 30 Years
Sex
MALE
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Male football players aged 18 to 30 years
* Clinical diagnosis of Achilles tendinopathy
* Achilles tendon pain for at least one month
* Pain intensity of 3 or higher on the Visual Analogue Scale
* Pain aggravated by weight-bearing activities
* Able to understand English and complete questionnaires
* Willing to avoid other treatments for Achilles tendinopathy during the 12-week study period
Exclusion Criteria:
* Lower limb injury within the past 6 months
* Previous Achilles tendon rupture or surgery
* Chronic ankle instability
* Recent use of eccentric exercises or heel insole lifts
* Metabolic or endocrine disorders
* Current use of medications other than paracetamol
* Unwillingness to comply with the study protocol
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Functional Ability (Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment-Achilles, VISA-A)