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BACKGROUND: Differential diagnosis of Achilles pathology is demanding. This study evaluates the diagnostic accuracy of clinical tests identified for a chronic mid body Achilles tendinopathy. Ultrasound scanning provides the reference standard. METHODS: Twenty-one participants with, and without, an Achilles tendinopathy, had an ultrasound scan followed immediately by the application of ten clinical tests. The accuracy and reproducibility of each test was determined. RESULTS: The most valid tests are; pain on palpation of the tendon (sensitivity 84%, specificity 73%, kappa 0.74-0.96) and the subjective reporting of pain 2-6 cm above the insertion into the calcaneum (sensitivity 78%, specificity 77%, kappa 0.75-0.81). CONCLUSION: Only location of pain and pain on palpation were found to be sufficiently reliable and accurate, to be recommended for use.

Original publication

DOI

10.1016/j.fas.2012.12.006

Type

Journal article

Journal

Foot ankle surg

Publication Date

06/2013

Volume

19

Pages

112 - 117

Keywords

Achilles Tendon, Chronic Disease, Female, Humans, Male, Middle Aged, Pain, Tendinopathy, Ultrasonography