Achilles Tendonitis
At Chichester Physio, we take a comprehensive, hands-on approach to treating Achilles tendonitis. Our first step is to assess where the tension is coming from and what is causing the added stress on the Achilles tendon.
What Is Archilles Tendonitis ?
We see a lot of people with Achilles tendonitis. The term “-itis” refers to inflammation, so just like tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, tendonitis refers to inflammation of the tendon. The Achilles tendon, located at the bottom of your calf, is the thickest tendon in the body, and it’s also one that’s very prone to inflammation.
Typically, Achilles tendonitis does not result from a direct trauma or injury to the tendon. Instead, it is often caused by overuse, repetitive stress, or even issues that occur higher up in the body, which in turn affect the tension in the calf muscles. The calf muscles, if they are too tight or overworked, put undue strain on the Achilles tendon, eventually leading to inflammation and pain. This commonly happens after activities that involve sudden movements, such as sprinting or jumping. In many cases, the tendon will become irritated after an individual increases their physical activity level, but without the necessary conditioning or flexibility to handle the added strain. As a result, an individual may experience pain or discomfort in the Achilles tendon, which can significantly affect their ability to perform regular activities.
What Are The Symptoms Of Achilles Tendonitis ?
The symptoms can vary, but they often begin with a dull ache or stiffness in the back of the lower leg, just above the heel.
You might notice tenderness or swelling in this area, especially after activity or in the morning when you first wake up. As the condition progresses, the pain can become sharper and more pronounced, particularly during physical activities like running or climbing stairs. You may also experience difficulty in fully flexing your foot or a sensation of tightness in the tendon.
In more severe cases, the tendon may become swollen or thickened, and you might feel a loss of strength in the affected leg. If left untreated, Achilles tendinitis can lead to further injury or even rupture. Early intervention and proper care are key to managing this condition and returning to an active, pain-free lifestyle.
What Is Our Approach To Fixing / Treating Achilles Tendonitis ?
When treating Achilles tendonitis, many individuals have already tried rest or ice to alleviate the symptoms. While both of these methods can temporarily reduce pain and swelling, they do not provide a long-term solution. Resting and applying ice may help the pain subside initially, but once the individual resumes their usual physical activities, the tendonitis often returns. This is because these treatments don’t address the underlying cause of the condition – the muscle tension, poor mechanics, or overuse that is contributing to the irritation of the Achilles tendon.
At Chichester Physio, we take a comprehensive, hands-on approach to treating Achilles tendonitis. Our first step is to assess where the tension is coming from and what is causing the added stress on the Achilles tendon. This often involves looking at the entire leg and how it’s functioning. In many cases, issues higher up in the body, such as tight hip muscles or poor alignment, can lead to tension in the calf muscles, which in turn affects the Achilles tendon. By identifying the root cause of the tension, we can target the problem more effectively and reduce the likelihood of future flare-ups.
We then use a combination of massage and stretching techniques to release tension and improve flexibility in the calf muscles. These treatments help to reduce the strain on the Achilles tendon and allow it to heal properly. Massage techniques, in particular, can help to release tightness in the calf and improve blood circulation, which aids in the healing process. Stretching is also crucial, as it helps to increase the flexibility of the muscles and tendons, reducing the likelihood of further injury.
Finally, we provide a personalised exercise programme for you to continue at home. These exercises focus on both strengthening and stretching the calf muscles to ensure they are strong, flexible, and able to support the Achilles tendon properly. Strengthening the muscles around the Achilles tendon helps to reduce strain, while stretching ensures the muscles are flexible enough to handle physical activities without causing discomfort. By incorporating these exercises into your routine, you can promote long-term healing and prevent future injuries.
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