Title: Understanding Achilles Tendinopathy: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Achilles tendinopathy (formerly known as ‘tendonitis’) can put a halt to your active lifestyle if left untreated. The Achilles tendon, the largest tendon in the body, connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This crucial structure facilitates movement such as walking, running, and jumping. However, repetitive stress or sudden increases in activity like tennis can lead to overload and degeneration of the Achilles tendon, resulting in Achilles tendinopathy.
Causes:
Achilles tendonitis often occurs due to overuse or strain on the Achilles tendon. Athletes who engage in activities such as tennis that require repetitive jumping, running, or sudden changes in direction are particularly susceptible. Other contributing factors include changes in footwear, recent weight gain, hill running, and biomechanical issues such as overpronation or high arches. Additionally, individuals who suddenly increase the intensity or duration of their workouts without proper conditioning are at risk.
Symptoms:
The hallmark symptom of Achilles tendonitis is pain and stiffness along the back of the heel, especially upon waking up or after periods of inactivity. This pain may worsen at the start of activity and subside with rest. Swelling and tenderness may also be present along the tendon. In severe cases, individuals may experience difficulty walking or standing on tiptoe.
Treatment:
Early intervention is crucial in resolving Achilles tendinopathy and expediating return to sport and activities. Here are some effective treatment options:
Relative rest and symptom recognition: Resting the affected leg from excessive loading (e.g. avoid playing tennis on consecutive days and applying ice packs when necessary to manage pain can be useful. It's essential to identify the activities that aggravate the symptoms and discuss these with your physiotherapist.
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Gentle stretching exercises for the calf muscles and Achilles tendon can improve flexibility and reduce tension. Strengthening exercises targeting the calf muscles are considered the most evidence based treatment strategy for Achilles tendinopathy.
Orthotics and Supportive Footwear: Wearing supportive footwear with proper arch support and cushioning can alleviate stress on the Achilles tendon. Orthotic inserts may be recommended to correct biomechanical issues and improve foot alignment, or your physiotherapist will suggest the best type of runners for your foot type eg Hoka, Asics etc and where best to shop for runners in Dublin.
Physiotherapy: A physiotherapist can provide personalized treatment plans focusing on stretching, strengthening, and biomechanical correction techniques to address Achilles tendonitis.
Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to alleviate pain and inflammation. However, long-term use should be avoided due to potential side effects.
Modalities: Modalities such as extracorporeal shockwave therapy and Platelet Rich Plasma injections may be used to promote healing and reduce pain. Your physiotherapist can advise you on these options.
Prevention:
Load management is important in Achilles Tendinopathy prevention. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of workouts, and avoid sudden changes in training regimens. Additionally, wearing appropriate footwear and maintaining flexibility and strength in the calf muscles can reduce the risk of injury.
In conclusion, Achilles tendonitis can be a debilitating condition, but with prompt treatment and preventive measures, individuals can effectively manage symptoms and resume their active lifestyle. If you experience persistent heel pain or suspect Achilles tendonitis, Eva, Kaitlyn or Lorraine at Physiofusion can assess for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.
Book Now with one of our team members.
