Optimising adult adherence behaviour to physiotherapist-delivered rehabilitation for Achilles tendinopathy

Achilles tendinopathy is a common, chronic or recurring musculoskeletal condition. It is challenging to treat and has variable outcomes. Low adherence is a likely contributory factor. This thesis aimed to identify mechanisms optimising adherence behaviour of adults with Achilles tendinopathy to physiotherapist-delivered rehabilitation, which were not known. Three separate studies were conducted to achieve this aim. A fourth study outlines a protocol for translating the new knowledge generated into clinical practice and research. The Capability, Opportunity, Motivation model of behaviour-change theory enabled standardised language of the findings, adding to the fields of behaviour-change and musculoskeletal rehabilitation adherence.