Published February 27, 2026
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Effectiveness of Dry Needling Versus Percutaneous Electrolysis in Achilles Tendinopathy: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors/Creators
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1.
Pontifical University of Salamanca
Description
Introduction: Achilles tendinopathy (AT) is characterized by pain, inflammation, and functional limitations.
It is also the most common cause of pain located at the back of the calcaneus. The Achilles tendon is among
the most vulnerable tendons in the lower limb, and its pathology is one of the most common overuse
injuries. Moreover, it is not an injury exclusive to athletes, as 65% of diagnosed Achilles tendinopathies are
not related to sport.
Methods: Randomized, single-blind clinical trial with 60 patients, 30 in each group. All study participants
were previously diagnosed with insertional AT, mid-portion tendinopathy, or both and were referred by an
orthopedic surgeon. The short- and medium-term results of treatment with dry needling (DN) application to
the gastrocnemius muscle trigger points (MTrPs) versus ultrasound-guided percutaneous electrolysis (PE)
application to the Achilles tendon were observed in terms of pain intensity, pressure pain threshold, ankle
dorsiflexion range of motion under load, quality of life, and ankle and foot function in patients with
previously diagnosed AT.
Results: The visual analogue scale revealed that the time effect was statistically significant. Similarly, AT
algometry revealed that the time effect was statistically significant, indicating that the pressure pain
threshold assessed by algometry changed significantly over the course of the study. Moreover, quality of life
and functionality showed statistically significant improvements from the third week of the study, whereas
range of motion remained unchanged.
Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided PE applied to the Achilles tendon is more effective than DN applied to the
MTrPs of the gastrocnemius muscle in reducing pain intensity and improving quality of life and ankle and
foot function in the short and medium term in patients with AT.
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References
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