Effects of a Lower Extremity Kinetic Control Exercise Program on Postural Stability and Functional Outcomes in Patients with Achilles Tendinopathy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Achilles tendinopathy (AT), represent a clinical term referred to for an injury to the Achilles tendon bit not rupture. It causes pain in the affected area and functional impairment while performing mechanical loading. Kinetic control is the balanced presentation of motion options with optimal communication among the main elements for sensorimotor neuromuscular control.
Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of adding Kinetic Control training to a conventional rehabilitation program on pain intensity, ankle ROM, dynamic balance, and foot and ankle function in patients with AT.
Methods: A randomized controlled trial was carried out including participants with AT who were allocated to two groups. Both groups received treatment two times weekly for eight weeks (16 sessions). Outcome measures included the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), ankle range of motion (ROM), the Biodex Balance System Overall Stability Index (OSI), in addition to the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS), measured before and after the intervention.
Results: Fifty subjects were randomized into both the conventional group (n = 25) and the Kinetic Control group (n = 25). Both groups showed significant improvements in pain intensity, ankle ROM, dynamic balance, and foot and ankle function after the 8-week intervention (P < 0.05). But, the Kinetic Control group showed significantly larger improvements in pain intensity (P < 0.05), dynamic balance (P < 0.05), and ankle ROM (P < 0.05), compared with the conventional rehabilitation group. Despite significant enhancement in the FAOS in both groups (P < 0.05), there was no significant difference among the groups (P = 0.374).
Conclusion: Kinetic Control training combined with conventional rehabilitation improved pain, ankle ROM, dynamic balance, and foot and ankle function in individuals with AT.