Achilles Tendonitis Treatment
Achilles Tendonitis Treatment
Achilles tendonitis is a common condition that causes pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the Achilles tendon, the largest tendon in the body that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. It often affects people who are active in sports, runners, or those who have recently increased their activity levels. At Podiatry Hub, we provide a range of effective treatments to help you recover from Achilles tendonitis and get back to your daily activities pain-free.
Understanding Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis occurs when the tendon becomes irritated or inflamed due to overuse, repetitive strain, or sudden increases in physical activity. It often manifests as pain and tenderness along the back of the heel or lower calf, especially during activities such as walking, running, or climbing stairs. If left untreated, Achilles tendonitis can lead to more severe issues, including chronic pain or even a tendon rupture.
Our Treatment Approach
At Podiatry Hub, our experienced podiatrists use a comprehensive approach to diagnose and treat Achilles tendonitis. We create personalised treatment plans based on the severity of your condition, your lifestyle, and your recovery goals. Our goal is to provide effective pain relief, reduce inflammation, and help you regain strength and flexibility in your Achilles tendon.
1. Rest and Activity Modification
The first step in treating Achilles tendonitis is often to give the tendon a break. We may recommend reducing or modifying activities that aggravate the pain, such as running or high-impact exercises. Rest is crucial for allowing the inflammation to subside and preventing further damage. In some cases, we might suggest temporary use of heel lifts, supportive footwear, or orthotics to reduce the strain on your Achilles tendon while it heals.
2. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
A structured exercise program is essential for treating Achilles tendonitis. Our podiatrists will guide you through gentle stretching and strengthening exercises that help to improve flexibility, increase blood flow, and promote healing in the tendon. These exercises gradually help restore the strength of the Achilles tendon, reduce stiffness, and prevent future injuries. Eccentric exercises, where the muscle lengthens while under tension, are particularly effective for treating this condition.
3. Taping and Bracing
In some cases, taping or bracing techniques may be used to provide additional support to the Achilles tendon, reduce pain, and prevent further injury. Our podiatrists can apply specialised taping methods or recommend braces that help offload the tendon and allow it to heal properly.
4. Footwear Advice and Orthotics
Wearing appropriate footwear is vital for managing Achilles tendonitis. Shoes with good arch support, cushioning, and shock absorption can reduce stress on the tendon. Our podiatrists will assess your footwear and recommend changes if needed. In many cases, we may provide custom orthotics that offer additional support and help correct any biomechanical issues contributing to your condition. Orthotics can help reduce excessive strain on the Achilles tendon and promote faster healing.
5. Manual Therapy and Massage
Manual therapy techniques, such as soft tissue massage and myofascial release, can help reduce muscle tension, improve blood flow, and relieve pain in the Achilles tendon. Our podiatrists are skilled in various hands-on techniques that can enhance the healing process, reduce scar tissue formation, and improve the flexibility of the tendon.
6. Night Splints
Night splints are worn while you sleep to keep your foot in a flexed position, stretching the Achilles tendon and calf muscles. This helps prevent the morning pain that is often associated with Achilles tendonitis.
Preventing Achilles tendonitis from recurring is just as important as treating it. Our podiatrists will provide guidance on how to prevent future flare-ups, including:
Gradually increasing your activity levels to avoid overloading the tendon
Incorporating regular stretching and strengthening exercises into your routine
Wearing supportive footwear that suits your activity level and foot type
Using custom orthotics if needed to maintain proper foot alignment
By following these preventive measures and adhering to your treatment plan, you can reduce the risk of re-injury and maintain the health of your Achilles tendon.
Why Choose Podiatry Hub for Achilles Tendonitis Treatment?
At Podiatry Hub, we understand the impact that Achilles tendonitis can have on your mobility and overall quality of life. Our experienced podiatrists are committed to providing personalised care and effective treatment options tailored to your unique needs. With a focus on evidence-based practices, we aim to help you recover as quickly and safely as possible, so you can get back to the activities you enjoy.
If you’re experiencing pain, stiffness, or swelling in your Achilles tendon, don’t wait to seek treatment. Early intervention is key to preventing the condition from worsening. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced podiatrists and start your journey to recovery. Let us help you take the first step toward a pain-free, active lifestyle.
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