Procedures of Limited Clinical Value - Treatment of tendinopathies

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Introduction

The treatment of tendinopathies (pain and abnormal function of a tendon) is considered a procedure of limited clinical value (PLCV). These are medical treatments that are not routinely funded by the healthcare systems, due to their low effectiveness or high cost relative to their benefits.

We asked people to comment on a set of statements which focuses on the treatment of the following:

• Achilles tendinopathy (heel pain)
• Tennis elbow (elbow pain)
• Plantar fasciitis (foot pain)

The pain is caused by a problem with the tendons and may be caused by inflammation, degeneration, tearing, excessive stretching or simply overuse. In many cases, the problem will resolve of its own accord with simple measures such as medication, rest or special exercises.

In a small number of cases, the problem may continue, and those people affected may request alternative treatments.

Some of these treatments requested could include extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), autologous blood and platelet-rich plasma injections.

We asked people to read the attached document on treatments for tendinopathies and proposed commissioning statement and complete a survey.

Individual Funding Requests (IFR)

For more information on Operational Policy, this can be viewed here Greater Manchester Individual Funding Request Service.