About 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.
Medical Specialties
Anatomic Areas
Clinical Indications
Developer Information
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 & Licensing
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.
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.
Score Interpretation
Understanding what your score means
severe dysfunction
0 - 30Severe dysfunction with significant pain and activity limitations
moderate dysfunction
31 - 60Moderate dysfunction with some pain and activity limitations
mild dysfunction
61 - 80Mild dysfunction with minimal pain and activity limitations
excellent function
81 - 100Excellent function with minimal or no pain
Clinical 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.
Supporting Literature
Key validation and development studies for the VISA-A
- 1
The VISA-A questionnaire: a valid and reliable index of the clinical severity of Achilles tendinopathy
Robinson JM, Cook JL, Purdam C, Visentini PJ, Ross J, Maffulli N, Taunton JE, Khan KM
British Journal of Sports Medicine, 2001
- 2
The VISA-A questionnaire: a valid and reliable index of the clinical severity of Achilles tendinopathy
Robinson JM, Cook JL, Purdam C, Visentini PJ, Ross J, Maffulli N, Taunton JE, Khan KM
British Journal of Sports Medicine, 2001
Related Outcome Measures
Other clinical questionnaires for similar specialties and conditions
VISA-A (Sedentary)
A modified version of the VISA-A questionnaire designed specifically for sedentary/non-sporting patients with Achilles tendinopathy. Replaces sport-specific questions (hopping, sporting activity) with daily functional activity questions. Two dimensions: Symptoms (Q1-5, 0-50) and Activity (Q6-8, 0-50). Total Score: 0-100.
Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM)
A patient-reported outcome measure assessing physical function in foot and ankle disorders. Includes two subscales: activities of daily living and sports.
Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool
A validated 9-item questionnaire designed to measure the severity of functional ankle instability in individuals with chronic ankle instability.
VISA-G
An index of the severity of greater trochanteric pain syndrome
VISA-H
An index of the severity of proximal hamstring tendinopathy
VISA-P
An index of the severity of patellar tendinopathy
This questionnaire is provided free of charge. Patient Watch charges only for platform services (data storage, automated reminders, analytics) - not for use of clinical instruments. This non-commercial model supports academic and clinical use. View full licensing disclosure