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What is Achilles Tendonitis?
Achilles Tendonitis is the irritation and inflammation of the Achilles tendon. Although it is believed to be the thickest and most robust tendon in the body, damage does sometimes occur to the Achilles Tendon causing an extremely painful injury.
Above: Our staff can provide you with a number of technqiues to help manage tendonitis, including deep stretching.What causes Achilles Tendonitis?
The main cause of Achilles tendonitis is over-use or repetitive strain injury and therefore sports associated with running or jumping can aggravate the Achilles tendon.
Achilles Tendonitis is also commonly caused by a lack of flexibility or flat footedness. Rigidity of the tendons comes with age and therefore as we get older we become more susceptible to injury.
What are the Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis?
The main symptom of Achilles Tendonitis is pain at the back of the heel, which is usually worse after long periods of inaction such as first thing in the morning or after sitting down for while. Aggravating activities like running and jumping are also painful.
Diagnosis of Achilles Tendonitis
A detailed assessment from a physiotherapist or doctor will diagnose Achilles tendonitis. Occasionally, further investigations such as an Ultrasound may be required to assist with diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition.
Physiotherapy treatment for Achilles Tendonitis
Physiotherapy treatment for Achilles Tendonitis should start as soon as possible to hasten recovery and to prevent further damage.
At Manchester Physio, physiotherapy treatment will significantly reduce pain and inflammation in the initial phase of Achilles tendonitis and then gradually improve muscle strength and flexibility to ensure an optimal outcome.
Physiotherapy treatment will be tailored to you but may include:
- Ice and heat treatment
- Soft tissue massage
- Ultrasound to accelerate healing
- Advice about insoles and orthotics
- Advice on how to modify activity while your injury is healing
- Passive stretching
- Joint mobilisation
- Exercises to improve strength, flexibility and balance
- Sport specific exercises
For more information about how physiotherapy can help with Achilles tendonitis, or to book an assessment please call 0161 883 0077.
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