Reporting of exercise descriptors and variables in resistance training interventions for lower limb tendinopathy: Protocol for a scoping review applying the consensus on exercise reporting template and Toigo and Boutellier framework

Abstract

Introduction: Musculoskeletal disorders have a significant global burden, with tendinopathies of the lower limb having a high prevalence. Although the use of resistance training interventions as treatment for tendinopathies has become widespread, the reporting and description of these interventions is often poor, preventing translation to clinical practice. Specific exercise description and intervention variables must be reported in order to translate research findings into clinical practice. This scoping review aims to summarise reporting of current resistance training interventions as assessed by the Consensus on Exercise Reporting Template and Toigo and Boutellier Framework. Methods and analysis: The recommended methodological framework described by the Joanna Briggs Institute will be used to structure this review, with reporting in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR. Databases to be searched include MEDLINE, CINAHL, AMED, EMBase, SPORT Discus, Cochrane library (Controlled trials, Systematic reviews), JBI Evidence Synthesis, and five trial registries. Two independent reviewers will screen studies at title/abstract and full text. Following screening, data will be extracted and charted, then presented as figures and table alongside a narrative synthesis. Dissemination: This scoping review will evaluate current resistance training exercise descriptors and program variables in lower limb tendinopathy using recommended frameworks for the first time in the literature. The results will allow dissemination of the parameters of research exercise interventions to clinical practitioners through peer-reviewed publication and social media outlets, allowing implementation in clinical practice. The review will also outline future research and exercise reporting needs within tendinopathy resistance training interventions. Keywords: tendinopathy; resistance training; exercise; physiotherapy