Evaluating the quality and reliability of youtube videos on achilles tendinopathy: a comprehensive analysis

Abstract

Aims: This study evaluates the quality, reliability, and educational value of YouTube videos on Achilles tendinopathy. Methods: A YouTube search using the keyword “Achilles tendinopathy” was conducted on June 20, 2024, using an incognito browser tab. The first 50 English-language videos were analyzed for upload date, duration, views, likes, dislikes, comments, and categorized by source and content. The DISCERN score, Global Quality Score (GQS), and Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) score were used to assess video quality and reliability. Statistical analyses included the Shapiro-Wilk test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Spearman test for correlations. Results: Among 50 videos, the average DISCERN score was 42.5, GQS was 3.2, and JAMA score was 2.6, indicating moderate overall quality. Academic physician videos had higher scores. Exercise training videos scored significantly higher in quality assessments. The highest Video Power Index (VPI) was also found in videos by academic physicians. Conclusion: YouTube videos on Achilles tendinopathy provide moderately sufficient information, with higher quality in videos produced by academic physicians and those focusing on exercise training. The study suggests a need for standardized, high-quality educational content on online platforms.