Introduction: Achilles tendon pathologies are very common amongst athletes and also physically less active population. The most common Achilles tendon injury is tendinopathy which can be either insertional or non-insertional tendinopathy. The two conditions differ in the way they emerge and also in the mechanical changes occurring in the tissue; therefore demanding different types of treatment and rehabilitation. Purpose: The purpose of the thesis is to investigate and outline the most appropriate approach in the treatment of insertional tendinopathy of the Achilles tendon. Methods: The thesis is designed as a literature review, including randomized controlled clinical trials published in/between 2006 and 2017, comparing the efficiency of conservative treatment and different physiotherapeutic methods and techniques in the treatment of insertional tendinopathy of the Achilles tendon. Results: Six articles, matching the inclusion criteria, were included in the review. In the included studies the number of included participants varied from 16 to 68. Several physiotherapeutic techniques and methods were used and discussed in the included studies: eccentric training, Astym therapy, Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy, CHELT therapy, and “standard” physiotherapy including stretching of calf and hamstring muscles, cryotherapy of the Achilles tendon, rest, and the use of different orthoses and braces. Discussion and conclusion: The results showed that all of the included methods improved the condition, however, further research is needed to determine the most appropriate method for the treatment of the insertion tendinopathy of Achilles tendon.
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