The Effects of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy in Treatment of Achilles Tendinopathy

Diplomová práce Účinky rázové vlny v léčbě tendinopatie Achillovy šlachy 1 Abstract This thesis focuses on the observation of the effects of low-energetic focused extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in the treatment of Achilles tendinopathy. The theoretical part summarizes the current knowledge of anatomical, histological, kinesiological and biomechanical aspects of Achilles tendon (AT), as well as pathological processes, which can be described as Achilles tendinopathy, their differential diagnosis and treatment options. Last but not least, we present up-to-date information on the physical principles and biological effects of ESWT, not only in the treatment of AT diseases. The main goal of our research was to determine the effectiveness of low-energetic focused ESWT in the treatment of Achilles tendinopathy in comparison to the placebo group. The subject of observation was not only changes in clinical manifestations, but also possible changes in the morphology of AT using ultrasonography (USG). Methods: A total of 20 patients with symptomatic Achilles tendinopathy was included in the study, while only 18 of them completed the entire program, and therefore only the results of these patients were evaluated. They were randomly divided into two groups in 1:1 ratio. Group A was treated by ESWT with..