Effects of β-Hydroxy β-Methylbutyric Supplementation in Combination with Conservative Non-Invasive Treatments in Athletes with Patellar Tendinopathy: A Pilot Study

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to analyze the effect of conservative non-invasive treatments based on eccentric training, stretching and extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) supplemented with β-Hydroxy β-methylbutyric (HMB) or placebo (PLAC) on body composition, pain and muscular function (jump ability, muscular power and muscular strength) in athletes with patellar tendinopathy (PT). In a double-blind randomized trial, 8 athletes (4 males and 4 females) performed a physical rehabilitation for 4 weeks. They were randomly divided into two experimental groups (two males and two females in each one) that ingested HMB (HMBG) or PLAC (PLACG). In pre- and post-intervention were assessed body composition, pain, countermovement jump (CMJ), back-squat (BS) for analyzing peak power (W) (PPPP), load (kg) associated to PPPP (PPKG) and mean velocity (m/s) (PPMV) in addition to a 5-RM leg extension tests. An interaction intervention·supplementation (p = 0.049; Ƞ2p = 0.774) was observed in the height reached in the CMJ as an intervention effect in PPPP detected for the HMBG (p = 0.049). In addition, an enhancement in PPKG (p = 0.028; Ƞ2p = 0.842) was detected in the intervention, but not in PPMV, as an increase in the intervention in the 5-RM test (p = 0.001; Ƞ2p = 0.981) was observed. No changes were noted on body composition or pain (p > 0.05). The combination of eccentric training with stretching and ESWT increased concentric muscular power and strength after 4 weeks without changes in body lean mass or pain. In addition, HMB supplementation could enhance the power muscular performance in athletes with PT, optimizing the intervention adaptions.

Nutritional Strategies in the Rehabilitation of Musculoskeletal Injuries in Athletes: A Systematic Integrative Review

“…For instance, Deutz et al [ 118 ] showed improved lean mass preservation in older adults ingesting HMB during 10 days of bed rest. However, only one pilot study with eight federated athletes diagnosed with patellar tendinopathy has shown positive effects with doses of ≈3 g/day before the exercise rehabilitation program [ 59 ]. Based on the accumulated evidence, unlike other supplements, such as CrM, HMB cannot be confidently recommended to injured athletes since the effects may not be more effective than following current protein intake recommendations [ 93 , 107 ].…”

A Review of Patellar Tendinopathy in Athletes Involved in Jumping Sports

“…Although ESWT has limited evidence, it is considered a safe procedure that may help some patients. Additionally, ESWT may increase muscular power and strength when combined with exercise training and stretching [31]. As such, clinicians should use their clinical judgment when offering this experimental treatment for PT.…”