Achilles tendinopathy is a condition that affects the Achilles tendon, which is the largest tendon in the human body. It is a common injury among athletes and those who lead an active lifestyle. People who suffer from Achilles tendinopathy experience heel pain, stiffness, and swelling in the area. While there is no cure for the condition, there are ways to alleviate the symptoms and prevent it from becoming worse. In this blog post, we will discuss the best treatments for Achilles tendinopathy, including physiotherapy and chiropractic care.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is a popular treatment for Achilles tendinopathy. It involves exercises and stretches that aim to improve the flexibility and strength of the muscles surrounding the Achilles tendon. A physiotherapist will assess your condition and create a personalized treatment plan that suits your needs. The exercises may include calf raises, heel drops, eccentric strengthening, and massage to relieve pain and tension in the area.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care is another effective treatment for Achilles tendinopathy. Chiropractors use hands-on techniques to manipulate the joints and muscles in the affected area. The goal is to improve the range of motion and reduce pain and inflammation in the Achilles tendon. Chiropractic adjustments may include soft tissue treatment, stretching exercises, and spinal manipulations to realign the spine and reduce pressure on the Achilles tendon. Chiropractors also offer lifestyle advice on how to prevent the condition from recurring.
Orthotics
Orthotics are custom fit foot inserts made by a podiatrist, chiropractor, or physiotherapist to provide support to the feet. Wearing orthotics can help reduce the pressure on the Achilles tendon and promote better alignment. They can also help to prevent further discomfort or injury to the Achilles tendon. By distributing the weight evenly on the feet, orthotics can also help to reduce pain and improve overall mobility.
Rest and Ice
It’s important to rest and ice the affected area to encourage healing and manage pain. If you are an athlete or exercise regularly, it is necessary to take a break from these activities. Resting the foot may take a few weeks or even months depending on the severity of the injury. During this time, ice packs should be applied to the affected area for 20 minutes a few times a day. This will help reduce inflammation and swelling, which in turn can improve blood flow to the area.
Surgery
In severe cases where the Achilles tendon is severely damaged and non-surgical methods have not worked, surgery may be necessary. The surgery involves removing the damaged tissue and reattaching the healthy tissue back into place. Following surgery, recovery times can be lengthy but with the support of a physiotherapist, the tendon can fully heal.
Achilles tendinopathy can be a painful and frustrating condition to deal with, but there are numerous treatments available to alleviate the symptoms and prevent it from becoming worse. Physiotherapy and chiropractic care both offer safe and effective treatments that aim to improve flexibility, increase blood flow, and reduce inflammation around the Achilles tendon. By working with a podiatrist or physiotherapist, you can develop a customized treatment plan that suits your needs if you have Achilles tendinopathy. With proper care and attention, you can get back on your feet and resume your active lifestyle pain-free.
