Achilles Tendonitis
Find relief from pain and stiffness due to an affected Achilles tendon with specific care and treatment.
What is The Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon, or the Achilles, is the thick, fibrous band of tissue that runs down the back of your foot, from your calf muscle to your heel bone. It is a strong and flexible tendon and plays a vital role in many of your daily movements, including walking, jumping, and running.
Because it bears a lot of tension and pressure, the Achilles tendon is susceptible to issues that may cause discomfort and reduced functionality. This can greatly impact day-to-day activities, so it may be beneficial to act on an issue as quickly as possible by seeking professional assistance from a podiatrist.
WHAT IS ACHILLES TENDONITIS/ACHILLES TENDINOPATHY?
Achilles tendonitis, more recently known as Achilles tendinopathy, is a condition that involves inflammation, irritation, and swelling of the Achilles tendon. This chronic condition generally occurs due to overuse and results in a gradual breakdown and weakening of the tendon due to tiny, microscopic tears. It is a long-term issue that has the potential to cause permanent changes without adequate treatment or healing.
Achilles tendinopathy differs from Achilles tendon rupture, which is a common, painful, and acute condition that occurs when the tendon partially or completely tears due to being overstretched.
Achilles Tendonitis Symptoms
This condition may present with a variety of symptoms. Achilles tendon pain is often more prominent in the morning and at the beginning of physical activity and may settle after some gentle movement. Discomfort can range from a minor ache to severe foot pain that prevents mobilisation.
Symptoms of Achilles tendinopathy may include:
- Walking and running pain.
- Heel pain.
- Stiffness.
- Loss of strength.
- Redness and warmth at the site.
- Swelling.
- Reduced range of motion.
- Heel spurs.
Heel spurs are often the result of inflammation, and we can treat them with Shockwave.
Causes of Achilles Tendonitis
This condition is ultimately caused by overloading on the Achilles tendon. This may happen due to a range of reasons such as:
- Moving on uneven surfaces.
- Insufficient warmups before physical activity.
- A sudden change in the amount, frequency, or type of physical activity.
- Poor footwear.
- Weak or tight calf muscles.
Achilles Tendonitis Treatment Canberra
At Capital Podiatry, we will conduct a thorough assessment of your symptoms and relevant background to identify and confirm the reason for your discomfort. We will then develop a tailored care plan to target your requirements and goals.
Treatment depends on your symptoms and the level of damage present. Your treatment plan may involve techniques such as:
- RICE treatment (rest, ice, compression, and elevation).
- Sports podiatry.
- Shockwave therapy.
- Manual therapy and massage.
- Dry needling.
- Strapping or supportive braces.
- Custom orthotics.
- Eastern therapies such as gua sha and moxibustion.
Your podiatrist can also develop a program and provide education and guidance to address underlying factors, injury prevention, and improve your strength and mobility in the area. This may involve focusing on aspects such as:
- Weak calf muscles.
- Weak foot muscles.
- Suboptimal biomechanics.
- Reduced flexibility.
- Pronatory gait (rolling foot inwards).
- Insufficient blood flow and circulation.
- Stiff joints and reduced range of motion.
- Inappropriate footwear.
- Inadequate techniques and approaches regarding physical activity and exercise.
Achilles Tendinopathy Frequently Asked Questions
Who is at risk of developing Achilles tendinopathy?
People who undergo rigorous physical activity and training are at an increased risk of suffering from this condition. Other risk factors include having a family history of the condition, poor footwear and training techniques, weak ankles, and having a higher BMI.
What does Achilles pain feel like?
Why Choose Capital Podiatry?
Highly Experienced Team
Each of our podiatrists are highly experienced and qualified in providing diagnosis and treatment for a broad range of foot and lower leg conditions and concerns.Focused Treatment
The Achilles tendon is a crucial soft tissue when it comes to movement in the lower limbs. Receiving professional support for an injury or ongoing breakdown related to this tendon is highly advisable to work towards avoiding permanent damage and discomfort.Reduced Pain
Your podiatrist will help you find pain relief and improved functionality by taking steps to improve the condition of your Achilles tendon and related regions.Podiatry Treatment Targeted at Achilles Pain
It may be easy to overlook the importance of your Achilles tendon, tucked away behind your heel bone. However, when it comes to moving our feet and mobility, it is crucial. Subsequently, if you are dealing with an issue related to this tendon, it may be highly beneficial to seek personalised care.
Achilles tendonitis, or Achilles tendinopathy, can significantly affect your day-to-day life. If you are experiencing Achilles pain, reduced mobility and function, and swelling in the area, please contact our team to organise your initial consultation.
TAKE THE FIRST STEP
Every journey starts with a single step, there’s no need to suffer any longer.
Make an appointment with our experienced podiatrists today.