Abstract
Introduction: The results of treatment of Achilles tendinopathy are described in the sporting community little is known of the long-term results in the general population. Our aim was to assess these results in a district general hospital setting.
Materials/Methods: Patients who had undergone treatment for Achilles tendinopathy were identified from hospital records and assessed by postal questionnaire. This consisted of two parts (the VISA-A and a section about occupation, duration of symptoms prior to referral, prior sporting activities, and satisfaction). This was sent out with a stamped addressed return envelope, in the case of non-reply this was followed by a second one, and finally the patient was contacted by phone. Clinical notes of responders were reviewed.
Results: 71 patients were identified and the response rate was 83% with an equal, male to female split. Average age was 45; mean time to follow up was 8 years. Patients had undergone a wide variety of treatments (73% physiotherapy, 45% heel raises, 24% steroid injection {there were no ruptures reported}, and 12% operative). Duration of symptoms prior to referral ranged from 2 weeks to 27yrs. 78% were very satisfied or satisfied. 46% undertook sport prior to onset of symptoms, and at the time of follow up 40% undertook sport. 81% did not change their occupation. Average VISA-A score was 50 (range 10–90).
Discussion: Despite an average VISA-A score of 50 (excellent 90–100, good 75–85, fair 60–70, poor< 50), after a follow period up of 8 years, most patients were satisfied with the treatment they had received. We could find no correlation between treatment and eventual outcome.
Conclusion: Patients generally have continued symptoms from their Achilles Tendinopathy, many years later, despite standard treatments, which is reflected in poor VISA-A scores.
Correspondence should be addressed to: D. Singh, BOFAS, c/o BOA, The Royal College of Surgeons, 35–43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PE.
