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- Talk
- 21/09/2021
- UK
Achilles Tendinopathy Management (ATM): A Single Blinded Placebo Controlled Multicentre Randomised Clinical Trial of Platelet Rich Plasma Injections for Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy
Description
In this informative presentation, Rebecca Kearney discusses the results of a randomized controlled trial that investigated the efficacy of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections for treating Achilles tendinopathy, a condition characterized by pain and decreased function in the Achilles tendon. Becky explains that PRP therapy involves taking a patient's blood, processing it to enrich for growth factors, and injecting it into the tendon area. Despite its popularity, initial research has shown weak evidence supporting PRP's benefits over traditional sham injections.
The trial, which took place across 24 sites between 2016-2020, included a large participant pool. The primary outcome measure was the VISA-A score, which assesses symptoms of Achilles tendinopathy. Results demonstrated no significant differences between the PRP and placebo groups at three and six months, highlighting a minimal clinical relevance. Kearney also notes that the study found no severe complications, although mild adverse effects did occur.
Ultimately, the findings suggest that PRP does not provide superior benefits compared to sham treatments, calling into question its clinical use for this condition. Acknowledging the importance of further research to optimize treatment strategies for Achilles tendinopathy, Kearney concludes with thanks to the research team and collaborators.