Achilles injuries are common among athletes and people who engage in intensive physical activities. Often, people who experience this type of foot and ankle injury unknowingly make the situation worse by engaging in actions that will exacerbate their condition. In this blog post, we will look at what you should avoid doing when dealing with Achilles injuries. If you are suffering from Achilles pain, be sure to read on and take note of these tips.
Do Not Ignore the Pain
One of the most common mistakes that people make when dealing with Achilles tendon injuries is ignoring the pain. They hope that the pain will subside or go away on its own. It’s essential to understand that the pain is a sign that something is wrong and needs medical attention. Seeking treatment early on will help to prevent further damage to the tendon.
Avoid High-Impact Activities
If you are experiencing Achilles pain, it’s crucial that you avoid high-impact activities like running, jumping, or sports that involve swift movements. These activities can put added stress on the tendon and make the injury worse. Instead, try low-impact exercises such as swimming or cycling that put minimal stress on the Achilles tendon.
Do Not Stretch Too Hard
Stretching is excellent for preventing and treating Achilles injuries, but it’s easy to overdo it. Stretching too hard or doing it too often can exacerbate the injury and increase the pain. If you’re experiencing pain, take a break from stretching and listen to your body. Gradually increase your stretching regimen once you’re feeling better.
Avoid Wearing High Heels
Wearing high heels can put a lot of stress on the Achilles tendon, leading to further damage and pain. If you’re suffering from an Achilles injury, wear shoes with a low heel or opt for flats. This will ease the pressure on your Achilles, allowing it to heal and recover.
Do Not Self-Diagnose
Finally, it’s essential to seek medical attention from a qualified physician or physical therapist when dealing with Achilles injuries. Self-diagnosing or treating the injury with home remedies can worsen the condition. A professional will assess your injury and recommend the necessary treatment plan that will allow for a speedy recovery.
In conclusion, if you’re experiencing Achilles pain, it’s critical that you seek medical attention immediately. Once you have sought professional advice, be sure to follow the instructions given and avoid the activities listed above that could lead to further injury. By following these tips, you will be able to treat your Achilles injury properly and get back to your normal activities in no time. Remember to take proper care of your body, and it will take care of you.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapist at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
