Achilles tendonitis may be painful and reduce your mobility and functionality. If you are experiencing this uncomfortable condition, you are no doubt asking, ‘What can I do to improve Achilles tendonitis?’
If you have Achilles tendonitis, it is important to seek support from a qualified and experienced professional. We will provide suitable intervention as well as guidance to restore your Achilles pain free function and prevent recurrence.
What is Achilles Tendonitis?
There is a thick band of tissue that joins your calf muscles to your heel bone at the back of your leg. When you overuse this tendon, it may become inflamed. This is Achilles tendonitis. The condition typically occurs when there is a sudden increase in activity duration or intensity.
Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis can include:
- Mild aching above your heel or at the back of your lower leg after activity.
- Severe pain after prolonged exercise such as running.
- Tenderness in the area.
- A thickening or hypertrophy of the tendon which can predispose to a full tendon rupture.
- Stiffness, particularly in the morning or after prolonged rest.
If the pain becomes severe or your mobility is significantly reduced, you may have torn or ruptured your Achilles tendon, which can occur after tendonitis has developed. It is highly advisable to seek immediate medical care for this condition.
Shockwave therapy (ESWT)
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy is an evidence-based approach for the long-lasting treatment of many foot and leg inflammatory conditions, including heel pain, heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, achilles tendonitis, shin splints, hamstring strains and hip bursitis, to name a few. ESWT uses sound waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing process by causing the formation of cavitation bubbles within the tissues. These cavitation bubbles cause microscopic changes in tissues, resulting in reduced pain perception and a therapeutic regenerative healing effect.
Can I Combine Ice and Heat Therapy for Achilles Tendonitis?
Ice and heat therapy both have their benefits and their disadvantages. Overall, it often comes down to the stage of recovery you are in and how inflamed the area is. Taking advantage of these natural, easy-to-access forms of treatment has the potential to improve your comfort and reduce long-term implications.
We can guide you through the stages of recovery and identify when it may be beneficial for you to apply ice and when it may be beneficial to apply heat.
Utilise Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy for Achilles Tendonitis Recovery
Dealing with Achilles tendonitis can be challenging. However, with proper guidance and interventions, there is potential for positive results. Seeking professional assistance as early as possible may promote a quicker recovery and minimise negative long-term effects.
If you are experiencing Achilles tendonitis or suspect the condition is the cause of your discomfort, please contact us to organise your initial consultation. We will carry out a thorough assessment and develop a personalised treatment plan for you. This will include advice regarding at-home strategies such as cold and heat therapy and whether these options are suitable for you.
