Our foot health experts here at Coastal Podiatry are extremely experienced in treating Achilles Tendon pathologies and they are one of the more common conditions that we treat day to day.
The good thing is we are getting great results, in fact if we are targeting and treating the underlying problem which is causing the Achilles problems to start with then we are getting about a 94% success rate (based on treatment of Achilles Tendon pathologies from January 2018 to date).
The Achilles Tendon is the strongest and thickest tendon in the body and it runs down the back of the lower leg connecting the calf muscle to the heel. We use our Achilles Tendon whenever we are moving be it walking, running or jumping.
Achilles Tendonitis occurs when the Achilles Tendon becomes inflamed due to overuse, stress, injury or degeneration. Achilles Tendonitis and it’s associated pain and swelling can affect anyone, from professional athletes to weekend warriors as well as our younger sports enthusiasts and retirees.
What are the causes of Achilles Tendonitis?
- Sudden trauma to the tendon either directly or through causing it to stretch too quickly such as when sprinting or jumping.
- Overuse
- Suddenly increasing your walking or running distances or speeds, without giving the body the chance to adapt
- Resuming sports or activity after long periods of rest or inactivity.
- Returning to sport or activity too soon after injury
- Failure to properly and adequately stretch before and after activity
- Repetitive hill running or stair climbs
- Inappropriate footwear
- Faulty foot mechanics
What are the symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis?
- Mild pain after exercise or activity that gets worse over time
- Pain, aching or niggling discomfort along the back of the lower calf, especially after running or exercise
- Persistent swelling in the lower calf most of the time not just during or after activity
- General stiffness, tenderness or tiredness in the lower calf area, especially after a night’s sleep and first thing on a morning when the feet hit the ground
- Sometimes you may experience a hard lump around the back of the heel or in the tendon
How is Achilles Tendonitis treated?
- Proper assessment and diagnoses is key
- Reduce stress and impact on the Achilles Tendon. Rest is important or choosing a non impact sport or modifying exercise programs
- Appropriate orthotics to alleviate the stress and strain on the tendon and to correct any faulty foot mechanics if needed
- Shockwave Therapy is the best treatment for tendon pathology and can accelerate the true healing process as well as reducing pain and discomfort.
- Exercise programs will be tailored to suit your ability and also to the stage of your condition.
Book Your Podiatry Appointment
If you’re experiencing painful or disruptive Achilles Tendonitis, book a podiatry appointment today. Our experienced team will provide quality podiatry care using the latest assessments, technology, and techniques.
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