Achilles tendinopathy is a common overuse injury affecting both athletes and the general population, leading to symptoms of pain, swelling and stiffness. The Achilles tendon originates from the calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) and inserts into the heel bone of the foot. (refer to image below). Overuse can cause damage to the tendon, which may ultimately lead to pain and stiffness.
There are many factors that can lead to degeneration of the tendon, including anatomical/biomechanical abnormalities, as well as external factors, such as poor training methods or poor footwear to name a few.
Achilles tendon pain usually comes about when participating in activities that require movements such as jumping and running. The pain tends to decrease with rest from activity. Due to the poor blood supply to the Achilles tendon, the healing process can be one that is prolonged and can lead to a debilitating and painful lifestyle.
A range of other conditions that may be misdiagnosed as Achilles tendinopathy include:
It is best to visit your local podiatrist to have a full assessment conducted in order to come to a correct diagnosis.
A range of different treatment modalities can be used to treat Achilles tendinopathy, which include but are not limited to:
These are just a few of our treatment methods. Treatment is not so simple, and for this reason it is important to know what to do and when to do it. If you have any enquiries or would like to know more about what can be done to treat Achilles tendinopathy, you can contact us or simply make an online booking.
Achilles tendon pain usually comes about when participating in activities that require movements such as jumping and running. The pain tends to decrease with rest from activity. Due to the poor blood supply to the Achilles tendon, the healing process can be one that is prolonged and can lead to a debilitating and painful lifestyle.
A range of other conditions that may be misdiagnosed as Achilles tendinopathy include:
- Calcaneal stress fracture
- Retro-calcaneal/superficial calcaneal bursitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Ankle osteoarthritis
- Os Trigonum
It is best to visit your local podiatrist to have a full assessment conducted in order to come to a correct diagnosis.
A range of different treatment modalities can be used to treat Achilles tendinopathy, which include but are not limited to:
- Eccentric calf strengthening
- Calf and hamstring static stretches
- Gastrocnemius/soleus deep tissue release
- Custom orthotics
- Shockwave therapy
- Footwear advise
- Injection therapy
These are just a few of our treatment methods. Treatment is not so simple, and for this reason it is important to know what to do and when to do it. If you have any enquiries or would like to know more about what can be done to treat Achilles tendinopathy, you can contact us or simply make an online booking.
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