Abstract
IMPORTANCE: This study systematically examines the effects of tendinopathy on patients' quality of life and investigates their experiences with rehabilitation. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to synthesize qualitative research exploring the beliefs, perceptions, and experiences of individuals living with tendinopathy by employing a systematic review with meta-ethnography. DATA SOURCES: Studies were identified from 4 databases (CINAHL, EMBASE, Scopus, and ProQuest One Academic). STUDY SELECTION: Studies were included if they utilized qualitative methods to investigate beliefs, perceptions, and/or experiences of participants with clinically diagnosed tendinopathy. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Data synthesis was completed using the 7 phases of meta-ethnography and reported using the meta-ethnography reporting guidelines. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Checklist for Qualitative Studies. Confidence in the findings was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research (GRADE-CERQual). MAIN OUTCOMES(S) AND MEASURE(S): Twenty-three studies were included (rotator cuff [n = 12]; Achilles [n = 6]; gluteal [n = 2]; lateral elbow [n = 2]; and mixed tendinopathies [n = 1]). Methodological quality of included studies varied. Moderate confidence in review findings 1 and 2 and high confidence in review finding 3. RESULTS: Qualitative synthesis identified 3 themes: (1) I need to understand why my tendon hurts (participants wanted clarity regarding the cause of symptoms); (2) I want to fix my tendon, but I don't know how (participants had varied beliefs regarding optimal management and how to reduce their pain); and (3) I am uncertain whether my lifestyle will return to normal (participants felt frustrated with the negative impact that tendinopathy had on their life). CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE: This review provides insights into the lived experiences of individuals with tendinopathy. The review advocates for clearer communication and education regarding causes and optimal management of tendinopathy. Participants' varied beliefs and uncertainties about treatment efficacy suggest that health care providers consider individualized evidence-based guidance to improve patient outcomes.