Achilles tendinopathy is a common soft tissue injury that occurs around the back of the heel or around the calf. It can affect all people of all ages. It tends to occur when there is strain on the tendon. The repetitive damage in the tendon fibres can cause inflammation, tears or even ruptures.
Typical symptoms can include morning stiffness, tenderness over the Achilles tendon and variable levels of pain during exercise.
Treatment for Achilles tendinopathy depends on the severity of your condition. Generally rest, exercises, orthotics, footwear modifications, dry needling, shockwave therapy and manual therapies can help settle your symptoms.
Eccentric exercise is the best exercise for this condition. It helps to gradually increase the stress your tendon can take in a controlled manner. It can take up to 3-6 months to significantly improve your swelling and pain. Some exercises on the program can include:
A. Heel raises – going on your tip toes on both legs
B. Single Leg Heel Raises
C. Heel drops over the edge of a step
Do the exercises daily and aim for 3 sets of 15 repetitions for each exercise.
At Galleria Podiatry we offer customised stretching programs in conjunction with other therapies to help you towards being pain free and get you back into an active lifestyle. Pain is not normal and should not be something you have to put up with.
If you would like to find out more, or book a GAP-FREE ASSESSMENT* then please call or book below.
*Offer available to those with private health insurance with Podiatry cover, otherwise $69. Usually valued at $109.