Effectiveness of isometric exercise in the management of tendinopathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised trials

Clifford C, et al. · BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine

Isometric exercise was NOT superior to isotonic exercise for tendinopathy overall; analgesic response varies within and across populations. Cools the early hype: isometrics are an option, not a proven superior therapy.

Population

10 RCTs across patellar, rotator cuff, lateral elbow, Achilles and gluteal tendinopathy

Intervention

Isometric exercise

Comparator

Isotonic exercise or other treatments

Limitations

Small heterogeneous trials, limited (level 3) evidence; joint-pain populations barely studied.