VISA-A
An index of the severity of Achilles tendinopathy
What is the VISA-A?
The Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment - Achilles (VISA-A) questionnaire is a validated, condition-specific outcome measure designed to assess the severity of Achilles tendinopathy. This comprehensive tool evaluates pain, function, and activity limitations specific to Achilles tendon problems.
Scoring System
The VISA-A uses a scoring system where higher scores indicate better outcomes and improved function. Scores range from 0 to 100, with 100 representing perfect function and no pain.
General Information
Clinical Information
Instructions
The VISA-A should be self-administered and takes approximately 5-10 minutes to complete. Patients should be instructed to consider their Achilles tendon problems over the past week when answering questions.
Form Preview
See how the form looks and try the interactive version
VISA-A
An index of the severity of Achilles tendinopathy
Instructions:
The VISA-A should be self-administered and takes approximately 5-10 minutes to complete. Patients should be instructed to consider their Achilles tendon problems over the past week when answering questions.
Main Assessment (Questions 1-6)
0/10 = 0 minutes | 10/10 = 100 minutes
Strong severe pain = 0/10 | No pain = 10/10
Strong severe pain = 0/10 | No pain = 10/10
Strong severe pain = 0/10 | No pain = 10/10
Strong severe pain = 0/10 | No pain = 10/10
0/10 = 0 hops | 10/10 = 10+ hops
Activity Level (Question 7-8)
Not at all = 0/10 | Competing at the same or higher level = 10/10
8. Do you have pain undertaking sport?
Type: visa-a-8
8. Please complete EITHER A, B or C in this question. If you have no pain while undertaking sport please complete Q8a only. If you have pain while undertaking sport but it does not stop you from completing the activity, please complete Q8b only. If you have pain that stops you from completing sports, please complete Q8c only.
Patient Watch Form - 10/31/2025
Detailed Scoring Methodology
The VISA-A uses a scoring system where higher scores indicate better outcomes and improved function. Scores range from 0 to 100, with 100 representing perfect function and no pain.
Meaningful Change Threshold
A change of 10-15 points in the total VISA-A score is considered clinically meaningful. For individual domains, a change of 5-8 points represents meaningful improvement.
About the Developers
The VISA-A was developed by the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment team, led by Dr. Jill Cook and Professor Kay Crossley. The questionnaire was specifically designed for Achilles tendinopathy assessment.
Copyright Information
The VISA-A questionnaire is copyrighted by the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment. Permission for use must be obtained from the copyright holders.
Administration Instructions
The VISA-A should be self-administered and takes approximately 5-10 minutes to complete. Patients should be instructed to consider their Achilles tendon problems over the past week when answering questions.
Limitations & Considerations
The VISA-A is specific to Achilles tendinopathy and may not be applicable to other tendon conditions. The questionnaire relies on patient self-report and may be influenced by patient expectations or external factors.
Ready to implement VISA-A?
Get started with our comprehensive digital platform for patient assessment and monitoring.