Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles Tendon Treatment:
Whether you are a weekend warrior or full time warrior like the great Achilles, tendinitis can limit you ability to perform. Since everyone has different goals and different levels of injury this page includes a range of potential treatments that may vary based on your level of injury.
Tendinitis vs Tendinosis
Not all painful tendons are the same! Some tendons bear heavy load like the Achilles tendon while others are more delicate, assisting with fine movements of the toes (See Tendinitis vs Tendinosis).
Achilles Tendon Pain
Pain in and around the achilles tendon can be from many different causes. We will focus on the most common causes and treatments.
Achilles tendinitis is typically caused by repetitive stress to the tendon. This type of pain is usually worse first step out of bed in the morning or sitting to standing. Rest may even make this pain slightly worse. This pain and sometimes swelling is caused by your bodies response to the tendon injury. Your body is trying to repair the tendon but due to repetitive stress and load from walking or exercise, the tendon is unable to properly heal. This can lead to chronic pain, inflammation, star tissue formation, and eventually degeneration of the tendon called “tendinosis” (See tendinosis vs tendinitis).
The first step to healing tendinitis is to reduce the stress on the inflamed and irritated tendon. Here are a few recommendations for acute tendinitis.
Tendon Healing
Quick Tips:
Heel lifts: A heel lift will temporarily reduce the stress and pull of the achilles tendon. This prevents the tendon from continuing to tear and scar.
Anti-inflammatories: Under the direction of your physical consider which anti-inflammatory medications may be right for you.
Ice bath: Ice bath will reduce inflammation in and around the tendon.
Rest! Take a 2-3 week break and allow the injury to begin the early stages of healing.