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Anyone who’s ever done a lot of running, jumping, or even just walking on uneven surfaces has probably experienced Achilles tendon pain at one time or another. It can affect things that you love and even your daily activities. If you are wondering about the fastest alternative way to treat Achilles tendon pain, stay tuned to our page!
Definition
The Achilles tendon is one of the most important ones in the leg and the strongest in the human body. It is a connective tissue that links your calf muscles to your heel bone and plays an important role in helping you walk, jump, and run.
Two types of Achilles tendon injuries cause pain. First, Achilles tendonitis- a condition that occurs when the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed. Second, Achilles Rupture- a complete or partial tear of the Achilles tendon.
What Causes Achilles Tendon Pain?
Since the Achilles tendon is capable of withstanding a lot of force, its strength comes at a price. It is one of the most commonly injured tendons in the body that occurs when the tendon becomes inflamed and swollen.
Achilles tendon pain can be caused by several factors:
- Overuse: Repeated stress on the Achilles tendon can cause it to become irritated and inflamed. This is often seen in people who are involved in sports that require running and jumping, such as basketball and soccer. Overuse can also happen if you play tennis or do other activities that put a strain on your ankles and feet.
- Sudden Force: A fall or direct blow to the Achilles tendon can cause it to tear (rupture). This usually occurs in people who participate in sports such as football or track, where there is a lot of running and stopping suddenly.
- Inflammation: Tendinitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon that results in overuse or an injury. Symptoms of tendinitis include pain and swelling around the heel bone. Treatment for tendinitis includes rest, ice, and physical therapy. Surgery may be needed if the tendinitis does not respond to these treatments.
Achilles Tendon Treatment
There are some treatments for Achilles tendon injuries, ranging from conservative measures to surgery. For milder injuries, rest and icing can, and immobilization in a boot or splint may be enough to allow the tendon to heal. More severe injuries may require a period of complete rest followed by physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the muscles around the tendon.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the tendon. The type of surgery will depend on the extent of the injury, but it typically involves making an incision in the back of the leg and reattaching the tendon to the heel bone. Recovery from surgery can take several months, but most patients can return to normal activity levels eventually.
Physical Therapy for Achilles Tendon Injury
Physiotherapy is one of the most effective alternative ways to treat an Achilles tendon injury. It involves exercises and techniques that can help speed up the healing process of the tendon. Physical therapy helps to improve flexibility and range of motion while exercises lengthen and strengthen the tendon. A combination of both is often the most successful approach to rehabilitation following an Achilles tendon injury.
It is important to start exercises and physical therapy as soon after the injury as possible to maximize the chances of a successful recovery. If you wait too long to start, the tendon may become stiff and difficult to stretch.
Where to Ask for Help?
Here at Pelvis NYC, our physiotherapist Dr. Adam Gvili can perform and tailor a program specifically designed to your needs. Many patients with orthopedic problems recovered under his care. Check out his Google My Business page to learn more about him!
For more inquiries visit Pelvis NYC and you can get a FREE 15-minute teleconsultation if you book now.
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