To compare the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided percutaneous electrolysis and dry needling in patients with Achilles tendinopathy.
Key Findings:
Ultrasound-guided percutaneous electrolysis resulted in greater reductions in pain intensity compared to dry needling.
Improvements in pressure pain threshold and functional outcomes were more pronounced in the electrolysis group.
Quality of life and functional scores improved significantly in the electrolysis group from week two onward.
Interpretation:
Ultrasound-guided percutaneous electrolysis is more effective than dry needling in reducing pain intensity and improving quality of life and ankle and foot function in patients with Achilles tendinopathy.
Limitations:
Modest sample size.
Short follow-up period of one month.
Potential variability in patient populations from clinical and sports settings.
Different anatomical targets for each intervention may affect comparability.
Conclusion:
Ultrasound-guided percutaneous electrolysis is superior to dry needling for treating Achilles tendinopathy.
Systematic review found robotic-assisted total hip arthroplasty improved implant positioning precision without demonstrating better patient-reported outcomes or lower complication rates than conventional surgery.