This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluates the effects of oral beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) supplementation combined with an eccentric exercise and extracorporeal shockwave rehabilitation program on pain, tendon morphology, and neuromuscular performance in athletes with patellar tendinopathy.
Thirty athletes with a confirmed diagnosis of patellar tendinopathy are randomized to receive either HMB supplementation (3 g/day) or placebo during an 8-week rehabilitation program. Participants are evaluated at baseline, week 4, and week 8.
The primary outcome is pain and functional limitation assessed using the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Patella (VISA-P) questionnaire. Secondary outcomes include patellar tendon thickness measured by ultrasound imaging, countermovement jump (CMJ) performance, and neuromuscular performance variables derived from an incremental squat test using a linear position transducer.
The aim of the study is to determine whether HMB supplementation enhances clinical recovery and neuromuscular performance when combined with a standardized rehabilitation program compared with placebo.
Age between 18 and 49 years
Clinical diagnosis of patellar tendinopathy confirmed by a physician and physiotherapist
Competitive athlete in sports involving repetitive knee loading (e.g., basketball, volleyball, handball, athletics)
Minimum training frequency of three sessions per week
Any musculoskeletal injury other than patellar tendinopathy affecting performance
Systemic disease affecting musculoskeletal function
Inability to comply with the rehabilitation or supplementation protocol
Parallel
Eccentric exercise and extracorporeal shock wave therapy
Other interventionParticipants undergo a standardized rehabilitation program consisting of eccentric exercise and extracorporeal shock wave therapy.
Beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB)
Dietary supplementParticipants ingest 3 g/day of beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) in capsule form, administered 60 minutes before each eccentric training session during the 8-week intervention period.
VISA-P Score
Change in pain and functional limitation assessed using the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Patella (VISA-P) questionnaire. Scores range from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating better function and lower pain levels.
Patellar tendon thickness
Change in patellar tendon thickness (mm) measured by ultrasound imaging using a standardized longitudinal scanning protocol
Countermovement Jump (CMJ)
hange in countermovement jump (CMJ) height measured in centimeters using a contact platform. Participants will perform three maximal attempts, and the highest value will be recorded
Peak Power (PP) during squat test
Change in peak power (PP) measured in watts during an incremental squat test using a linear position transducer.
Peak Power Relative to Body Mass (PPkg)
Change in peak power relative to body mass (PPkg) measured in watts per kilogram during an incremental squat test using a linear position transducer.
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Universidad Complutense de Madrid
Lead sponsor
Universidad de Córdoba
Collaborator
University of Seville
Collaborator
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