Effect of Electroacupuncture on the Treatment of Chronic Achilles Tendinopathy: A Case Report

Abstract

Background and Objective: Chronic Achilles tendinopathy is among the most prevalent musculoskeletal disorders, especially among athletes. Despite numerous non-surgical procedures performed for this disorder, the treatment of these patients is still challenging. Given that electroacupuncture is a novel technique for the treatment of tendinopathy, a few studies have addressed it. This case report aimed to present the electroacupuncture technique for the treatment of chronic Achilles tendinopathy. Case Presentation: A 53-year-old male patient with a 6-month history of left Achilles tendon pain and limited daily activities was referred to Mobasher Physiotherapy Clinic in January 2024. For this purpose, 3-mm needles were inserted into the distal part of Achilles tendon at points BL 60, BL 61, KI 3, and KI 4. The patient received ten 20-min sessions of electroacupuncture treatment (three times per week at the frequency of 5 Hz and current intensity of 5 mA). Pain intensity and ankle range of motion were evaluated at first and last sessions. Conclusion: As evidenced by the results of this study, applying electroacupuncture for Achilles tendinopathy, especially chronic tendinitis that has not been treated with other conservative procedures, could improve the patient’s symptoms and ankle function, enhancing the patient’s functional activities and life quality.

Keywords

• achilles tendon
• electroacupuncture
• tendinopathy