Achilles Tendinitis
Take the first step towards addressing Achilles tendinitis.
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Kick Discomfort to the Curb
Did you know that the Achilles is the biggest tendon in the body? This tendon is at the back of the lower leg, or the calf, and connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. And not only is it the largest tendon in the body, but it’s also the strongest! Since it’s responsible for allowing us to walk, run, and jump, it’s an area we should look after as well as it looks after us.
The Achilles tendon is prone to overuse, however, and chronic stress placed on it may cause it to tear or become inflamed. If you’re experiencing pain behind the heel or ankle or have calf stiffness that’s often worse in the morning, you may be dealing with Achilles tendinitis. However, there are treatments available that may be able to reduce your pain and get you back to walking, running, and jumping in no time.
What is Achilles Tendinitis?
Achilles tendinitis is a condition where the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed or irritated. This tends to happen most often in runners, jumpers, and athletes who use their calf muscles frequently, though it may affect anybody, men and women alike.
Achilles tendinitis often develops gradually rather than occurring suddenly. If you feel sudden pain in your heel or calf, this may be an Achilles rupture rather than Achilles tendinitis and requires immediate medical attention. However, Achilles tendinitis still needs attention, as it may develop into a chronic problem if not addressed.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
Symptoms of Achilles tendinitis include:
- Heel pain, whether an ache or sharp pain
- Pain that worsens if you put pressure on the area or move it
- Stiffness in the tendon, especially if it’s worse in the morning or after rest
- Swollen back of the ankle
- Tender tendon
- Hearing a grating noise or feeling cracking when moving the ankle.
Achilles Tendinitis Treatments
Treatments for Achilles tendinitis vary depending on the cause, the symptoms, and their severity. In mild cases, conservative treatments, including at-home treatments such as rest, heat or ice, and anti-inflammatory medications, may provide relief. In other cases, techniques that may be used include:
- Strengthening exercises
- Heel wedges
- Massage therapy
- Shockwave therapy
- Orthotics
- Joint mobilisation
- Dry needling
A physiotherapist may also provide education and advice aimed towards taking pressure off the Achilles tendon.
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Your Achilles Tendinitis Questions Answered
One of the main causes of Achilles tendonitis is overuse, particularly in athletes such as runners, footballers, and basketballers. It may also occur in people with foot issues such as flat feet or hyperpronated feet. Other risk factors include obesity, not warming up properly before a workout, and wearing ill-fitting or uncushioned footwear.
Your physiotherapist will discuss your symptoms and health history with you before conducting a thorough physical assessment of your heel, ankle, and calf. This includes looking at how your feet and legs look while you stand, walk, squat, and raise your heels. In some cases, you may be referred for imaging to determine the severity or to check for other issues.
The time it takes to recover from Achilles tendinitis depends on its severity, cause, and the activities you want to get back into. Typically, recovery takes several weeks to several months, generally around 12 weeks.
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Why Ace Allied Health?
Passionate Physiotherapists
Our team is dedicated to what we do and the people we aim to assist.
Range of Treatments
Our experienced, multidisciplinary team offers physiotherapy, exercise physiology, gait and running analysis, and more.
Local Care
With four clinics here in regional Victoria, you don’t need to travel for highest quality care.
Taking You From Discomfort to Determination
Whether your Achilles tendinitis is due to overuse through your athletic pursuits or another reason, you don’t need to endure the pain. At Ace Allied Health, our physio’s in Bendigo, Castlemaine and Maryborough are ready to assist we aim to assist you in your recovery by providing our experienced physiotherapy care with your needs in mind. To experience the Ace Allied Health difference, book your appointment today!
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Empowering Health and Performance
At Ace Allied Health, your well-being is our priority. No matter your age, stage of life, or lifestyle, we want to help you feel your best! Whether that’s with physiotherapy, exercise physiology, dietetics, or something else, we’re the team in your corner cheering you on to help you reach your goals. Take the first step towards a healthier and happier life by booking an appointment today.