Achilles Tendonitis Treatment
Your Achilles tendon runs vertically from your heel to your calf muscle. If you are experiencing inflammation and frequent pain in this area, you may have Achilles tendonitis. Learn more about the treatment for Achilles tendonitis below, or contact us today for an appointment.
What Is Achilles Tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis is known as an overuse injury of the Achilles tendon. This can begin as a dull ache in the back of either leg and some individuals can experience pain or stiffness of the ankle with their first few steps of the morning. Prolonged activity — such as stair climbing or running — can exacerbate your symptoms.
Causes of Achilles Tendonitis
You use your Achilles tendon the most when you move, requiring its strength and flexibility for activities such as walking, jumping or standing on your toes. For this reason, runners are most often at the highest risk of developing Achilles tendonitis — this activity causes the most strain on the tendon.
Other factors can also influence your risk of developing Achilles tendonitis, including the following:
- Age
- Sex, specifically males
- High blood pressure
- Naturally flat arches
- Unsupportive footwear
How To Treat Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis often responds to rest and anti-inflammatory treatments to reduce swelling and stiffness. However, more advanced measures may be required if symptoms continue to persist.
MyoDynamic Health has a team of Certified Pedorthists that are trained in analyzing your biomechanics, gait analysis and manufacturing process of custom-made orthotics at their onsite orthotic lab.
Shockwave Therapy for Achilles Tendonitis
Shockwave therapy uses a handheld device to transfer high and low-energy waves to an affected area, working to reduce pain and inflammation. Additionally, shockwave therapy can stimulate the production of new connective tissue, giving your Achilles tendon more strength and endurance for intensive activities.
Physiotherapy for Achilles Tendonitis
Physiotherapy is a physical therapy method that uses a hands-on approach to recovery. Our physiotherapists will guide you through a customized program using massage therapy, exercises and stretches to help strengthen your Achilles tendon. You will also be given guidance on how to continue the program at home and prevent future recurrence.
Orthotics for Achilles Tendonitis
Wearing supportive footwear is a simple solution to avoiding Achilles tendonitis, especially if your feet have flat arches. With additional support, like custom orthotics, you will place less stress on your tendon as pressure is more evenly distributed throughout your foot.
MyoDynamic Health has an on-site orthotic lab where we can fit you for your insert and manufacture it all in the same place. Our orthotic turnaround is seven days to ensure you get the support you need as quickly as possible.
Contact MyoDynamic Health for Achilles Tendonitis Treatment Today
If you are experiencing symptoms or have been officially diagnosed with Achilles tendonitis, contact MyoDynamic Health at a location near you today. We have years of experience treating a variety of injuries. When you come in for your consultation appointment, we will sit down with you and ensure you get the treatment you need for a full recovery.
