Comparative Effect of Accelerated Rehabilitation and Eccentric Strengthening Exercises on Patients With AT

15 subjects in group A will be receiving Accelerated Rehabilitation protocol alongwith baseline treatment. Accelerated rehabilitation consisting of three phases, following 12 week exercise regime. Pain reduction, mobility, strengthening, and functional recovery are part of the accelerated rehabilitation protocol for Achilles tendinopathy. Ice, TENS, range-of-motion exercises, isometric calf contractions, and a progressive transition to full weight-bearing based are the mainstays of Phase 1 (Weeks 1-4). Phase 2 (Weeks 5-8) focuses on balance training, resistance band exercises, and seated and standing calf raises as well as light functional workouts like cycling or walking. Phase 3 (Weeks 9-12) progresses to sport-specific and endurance exercises like swimming or running after including plyometric drills, eccentric heel drops, and advanced strengthening. Each exercise will be performed under supervision of skilled physiotherapist for 2 times daily, 2 sets of 5 repetitions.

Group B will be receiving eccentric strengthening exercises alongwith baseline treatment. Techniques of Curwin, Stanish et al will be used for eccentric training. For every exercise, participants do three sets of 15 repetitions, with a 30-second break in between. Weight is added gradually to enhance resistance (5-10 lbs or more, depending on tolerance). The eccentric strengthening regimen for Achilles tendinopathy advances every week. Participants use both feet without dorsiflexion to perform eccentric contractions in Week 1. By Week 3, the focus of the workouts is on the injured foot in maximum dorsiflexion. In Week 4, 10% body weight resistance is introduced, and in Week 5, an extra 5-10 pounds. From Week 6 to Week 8, resistance rises every two weeks. From Weeks 9 to 12, functional motions like hopping, single-leg heel drops, and sport-specific drills are incorporated, all of which are customized to meet individual goals.