Development and validation of the VISA-A (Sedentary) questionnaire
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Development and validation of the VISA-A (Sedentary) questionnaire: a modified version of the VISA-A for non-athletic patients with Achilles tendinopathy.
IRAS ID
157695
Contact name
Seth O'Neill
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of leicester
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 5 months, 31 days
Research summary
Currently patients with Achilles tendon disorders complete an internationally recognised patient reported outcome measure (VISA A questionnaire). This questionnaire was designed for sports men/women and does not suit inactive individuals with Achilles tendon problems. As such it is difficult for doctors and Physiotherapists to measure change in symptoms and function in this group of patients, they often score badly on the questions despite a high level of functional improvement. This can give an unfair representation to commissioners of care about the clinical effectiveness of treatment but also it causes problems during research as clinical benefit cannot be accurately measured.
We have worked with a team of world tendon specialists and patients with Achilles tendon pain to develop a new questionnaire. The new modified version is called the “Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment –Achilles (Sedentary)” or VISA A (sedentary) and is designed for sedentary/inactive patients.
Our aims are to:
• Validate the new questionnaire against the VISA A
• Determine the reliability of the new questionnaire
The study will take place in UK NHS hospitals/clinics and utilise both versions of the questionnaire. Patients recruited to the study will be undergoing treatment for Achilles tendon pain and be non-sporting, i.e. do not participate in running related sports/activities. Age 18 or older.
Patients will complete both questionnaires at baseline (first appointment) and then complete the new questionnaire at 3 days after initial consultation, this will be achieved by a telephone call from treating physiotherapist (Ms Jaya Rayu). At completion of treatment (discharge) the patient will complete both questionnaires.
The study will recruit 40 patients initially to allow for loss of follow up and appropriate statistical analysis. The study will run for 6 months to ensure full data collection. This study does not change the patients care.REC name
West Midlands - Edgbaston Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/WM/0436
Date of REC Opinion
23 Nov 2015
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion