EFFECT OF SHOCK WAVE THERAPY AND ULTRASOUND THERAPY WITH ECCENTRIC EXERCISE FOR PROXIMAL HAMSTRING TENDINOPATHY IN ATHLETES

Abstract

Background: The aim of the study is to compare the effectiveness of shock wave therapy and ultrasound therapy with eccentric exercise for the treatment of chronic proximal hamstring tendinopathy in athletes.

Methods: The subjects with proximal hamstring tendinopathy (n=20) were selected randomly from the physiotherapy department of as per inclusion criteria and divided into two groups. The pre-test and post-test measurements of pain and stiffness were measured using on visual analogue scale, stiffness intensity numerical rating scale, Perth hamstring tendinopathy, modified bent knee test and puravan – orava test. Group A received shock wave therapy and Group B received ultra sound therapy along with eccentric exercise for a period of 4 weeks. Post test was conducted after 4 weeks.

Results: The comparison within Group A and Group B pre and post- test values in groups showed highly significant difference in mean value at P ≤ 0.001, but Group A which has a higher mean value is more effective in visual analogue scale, stiffness intensity numerical rating scale, Perth hamstring tendinopathy, modified bent knee test and puravan – orava test. The shock wave therapy given to proximal hamstring tendinopathy patients were found to reduce pain and stiffness by improving the functional activities of the patients.

Conclusion: This study concludes that extracorporeal shock wave therapy was best in among subjects with proximal hamstring tendinopathy, it also improvement in functional activities and reduction in pain and stiffness when compared to ultrasound therapy along with eccentric exercise.

Key words: Shock wave therapy, ultrasound therapy, visual analogue scale, stiffness intensity numerical rating scale, puraven orava test, modified bent knee test.