Achilles Tendinopathy
The Achilles tendon is very large tendon at the back of the ankle, and is part of the soleus and gastrocnemius complex. The Achilles tendon is extremely strong, and provides the power in the push-off phase of the walking-running cycle.
Causes
• Achilles tendinopathy is an overuse injury. Repetitive stressful loading on the Achilles tendon is the basic cause of the injury
• Increased activity in either distance or speed
• Changing shoes or sudden change to training surface
• Weak and/or tight calf muscles
• Overpronated feet, which roll in when running, can cause an increased strain on the achilles tendon
• High heels footwear constantly places undue stress on the tendon and calf muscles
Symptoms and Diagnosis
• Morning stiffness, and often before and/or after activity
• Thickening of the tendon
• A local swelling can be palpated with distinct tenderness
• Pain at the beginning of exercise which eases as the exercise progresses
• Pain eases with rest
Treatment
• Our distinctive hands-on manual therapy
• Kinesio taping
• Avoid pain-causing activities
• Rest and apply ice
• Wearing a heel pad raises the heel and takes some of the strain off the achilles tendon.
• Wearing the right running shoes for athlete’s foot type and the sport
• Stretching and eccentric strengthening exercises
Achilles tendinopathy constitutes a real challenge and should be managed with great patience. Healing of the achilles tendon is often slow due to its poor blood supply.