What does Dr Google tell us about tendinopathies? An Italian analysis of online content

This study aimed to identify the most frequently searched keywords and questions related to the Achilles, knee, shoulder, and elbow tendons in Italy. It further aimed to evaluate the credibility, readability, and content of the most visited web pages. Semrush Inc. (2008) machine learning models were used for data mining in December 2024. Credibility and readability of the most visited web pages were assessed through the QUality Evaluation Scoring Tool (QUEST) and Gulpease index, respectively. A content analysis of web pages was used to determine alignment with evidence-based literature. The most searched question was “How to treat foot tendonitis?” (2,750 searches). Only two web pages (2.2%) were rated as providing unbiased information using the QUEST, with credibility values ranging from 4.0 (±1.6) to 11.4 (±4.0) across all searches. Gulpease indices ranged from 34.0 (±2.1) to 42.8 (±2.9) across all web pages. Notably, content analysis revealed only a small percentage of web pages that aligned to best available evidence. Credibility, readability, and overall quality of online content on tendons were poor. Healthcare professionals may play a role in promoting accurate terminology and supporting the production of high-quality, evidence-based web page content to improve public health literacy. ”Dr. Google,” is used by individuals to seek health-related information for common issues like tendon pain. However, it is unknown if the information found online is trustworthy and easy to understand. This study investigated what people in Italy search for online about the most common tendinopathies: Achilles, knee, shoulder, and elbow. The most popular web pages were examined for credibility (trustworthiness), readability (easy to understand), and how web page content aligns with best available evidence. Patients with tendon pain were consulted in this research project. Our findings demonstrated that online information is often poor quality. Most web pages used outdated terms like “tendinitis” which may give end-users incorrect information about their condition. It was found that very few web pages were trustworthy and unbiased. The most visited web pages were found to have poor readability, even for people with a high level of education. Furthermore, advice for tendinopathy conditions viewed online rarely aligned with expert recommendations. Poor-quality online information can affect the end-users understanding of their health and the subsequent choices they make. There is a need for healthcare professionals to help create clear and accurate online resources for tendinopathy, using terminology that facilitates appropriate assessment and management of the condition.