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

Abstract

Background: 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.

Methods: 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.

Results: 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.

Conclusion: 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.