Effect Of Hyperosmolar Dextrose Injections For Treatment Of Achilles Tendinopathy

Purpose: Achilles tendinopathy is a degenerative, not an inflammatory, condition. It is one of the most frequently injured tendons in the human body despite its strength, due to repetitive strain acting on the tendon. Hyperosmolar dextrose injections also called prolotherapy, is a regenerative injection technique using stimulation of regenerative processes for treatment of chronic musculoskeletal conditions. The aim of study was to investigate the effect of prolotherapy in patients with non-insertional Achilles tendinopathy in terms of pain.Materials and Methods: This retrospective study is comprised of 18 consecutive patients above 18 years of age, who were diagnosed as Achilles tendinopathy. Visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to assess pain intensity in the last 24 h. Injections were applied to tender points in the subcutaneous tissues adjacent to the affected tendon. All evaluations were done before treatment, at 4 weeks and 12 weeks after treatment.Results: The study sample consisted of 18 adults (12 female and 6 male). Subjects' ages ranged from 18 to 52 years, with a mean age of 34.89 +/- SD 12.04 years. A statistically significant improvement in the VAS scale was demonstrated.Conclusion: Hyperosomolar dextrose injections, irrespective of dextrose concentration is an efficient alternative regenerative treatment modality for achilles tendinopathy. Thus, it should be considered as a treatment option for chronic musculoskeletal conditions, particularly tendinopaties.