Clinical Research Directory
Browse clinical research sites, groups, and studies.
Pilates Method in Achilles Tendinopathy Rehabilitation
Sponsor: University of West Attica
Summary
Achilles Tendinopathy (AT) is characterized by pain, swelling and dysfunction. Rehabilitation strategies focus on conservative treatment, with eccentric exercise being the main and most popular option. Patient education based on the biopsychosocial model is considered important for effective self-management, including modification of activities and loads and pain monitoring. Established exercise protocols are applied in rehabilitation, with eccentric, eccentric- concentric combinations and high-resistance exercises performed at a slow pace being the most popular. The Pilates method , which has gained popularity in recent years, focuses on core stabilization, motor control, correct posture through respiratory patterns during execution as well as flow and mindfulness and is applied to the rehabilitation of various musculoskeletal disorders. Although there is a research background in rehabilitation, the data for its application in AT are limited. The present study aims to investigate the integration of Pilates into clinical practice for AT.
Official title: The Pilates Method in the Rehabilitation of Achilles Tendinopathy - A Randomized Controlled Trial
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
49
Start Date
2025-05-19
Completion Date
2026-05-08
Last Updated
2026-05-13
Healthy Volunteers
No
Interventions
Pilates exercise
This study investigates a Pilates-based rehabilitation program for individuals with Achilles tendinopathy (AT). Although eccentric loading protocols remain the most commonly applied conservative treatment approach, some individuals demonstrate persistent symptoms, limited adherence, or difficulty tolerating high-load exercise programs. The Pilates method incorporates principles of core stabilization, motor control, movement quality, postural alignment, and progressive functional loading, potentially offering an alternative rehabilitation approach for individuals with AT. The present trial aims to evaluate the feasibility, adherence, safety, and preliminary clinical response of a Pilates-based intervention in relation to pain, function, kinesiophobia, and functional performance.
Alfredson protocol
This study compares Alfredson eccentric loading protocol, which is one of the most commonly applied rehabilitation approaches for Achilles tendinopathy, with an alternative exercise-based rehabilitation program incorporating Pilates principles and progressive functional loading.
Locations (1)
Physiotherapy Department, University of West Attica
Athens, Aigaleo, Greece