Conditions
Achilles Tendonitis Treatment Kilmore
A holistic approach to managing chronic pain in the heel.
What is Achilles Tendonitis?
Located behind the ankle joint and connecting the heel bones to the calf muscles, the Achilles is the longest tendon in the body. As such, sports injuries to this area are common, particularly among runners.
Achilles tendonitis (also known as Achilles tendinopathy) occurs when the tendon becomes inflamed, which may lead to physical pain and swelling. This canmake it challenging to perform everyday activities and prevents you from playing sports and keeping active. However, engaging in Physiotherapy may be able to help manage the pain.
Signs and Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis
While one of the main symptoms of Achilles tendonitis is physical pain and swelling on the back of the heel, particularly when walking or running, this is not the only symptom. You may also experience:
- Stiffness in the area, particularly first thing in the morning or after rest
- Pain that is present before, during, or after activity (depending on severity)
- Redness, tenderness, or warm to the touch
- Tight calf muscles
- Limited range of motion when flexing the foot
Causes of Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis is usually caused by overuse or persistent strain. Some common causes of this condition include:
- Exercising without properly warming up
- Poor foot mechanics or excess pronation
- Playing sports that involve quick stops or sudden changes in direction (such as basketball and netball)
- Wearing high heels for long periods
- Jumping into intense exercise without gradually building up activity levels
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Having bone spurs on your heels
- Weakening due to age
- Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and even infection
Kilmore Wellness Centre
Are you experiencing heel pain that you suspect is Achilles tendonitis? Kilmore Wellness Centre aims to provide care tailored to your individual needs.
Kilmore Wellness Centre
Treatment for Achilles Tendonitis
When addressing Achilles tendonitis at Kilmore Wellness Centre, we have two main aims: to reduce strain and inflammation on the Achilles tendon.
At our multidisciplinary clinic, you may be seen by a team of experienced Physiotherapists, Osteopaths, Myotherapists, Podiatrists, and Exercise Physiologists as part of your tailored treatment plan.
Some of the hands-on therapy treatments that may be explored include:
- Cryotherapy or Thermotherapy
- Avoidance of activities that aggravate the condition
- Footwear advice
- Joint mobilisation
- Strapping and taping
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Orthotics
- Myofascial release
- Extracorporeal shockwave therapy
Surgery may be considered as a last resort where other treatment options have failed, or when the tendon has ruptured and needs to be reattached. Proper rehabilitation after surgery will generally see you return to regular activity.
Kilmore Wellness Centre
Your Achilles Tendonitis Questions Answered
How is Achilles tendonitis diagnosed?
Your practitioner will ask a series of questions about your condition, including your medical history, when pain occurs, how long you’ve been experiencing symptoms, and your specific concerns. They may also assess your flexibility and range of motion. In some cases, you may also be sent for imaging (such as ultrasounds, X-rays, and MRIs) in an effort to seek a clear diagnosis.
Are Achilles tendonitis and Achilles tendinosis the same thing?
No, they are two different conditions. Achilles tendonitis is an acute condition characterised by inflammation, the result of a sudden injury. Achilles tendinosis, on the other hand, is a chronic condition characterised by the thickening of the tendon. While treatments may be similar, they often differ, so getting a clear diagnosis from an experienced professional is a must.
Can Achilles tendonitis be prevented?
While it is sometimes unavoidable (particularly in the case of athletes with sports injuries), there are things you may be able to do to lessen your risk. This includes:
- Warming up properly before physical activity
- Gradually increasing activity levels
- Choosing supportive footwear
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Stretching regularly
- Strength and conditioning exercises
Prevention strategies are important not only for tendon issues, but also for other chronic conditions affecting the foot and lower leg.
Kilmore Wellness Centre
Why Kilmore Wellness Centre?
Patient-Centred Approach
Our primary focus is you. Whatever your health goals are (returning to sport, being able to play with your kids, or simply living life with less discomfort), we tailor our treatment plans to your unique needs.
Multidisciplinary Team
With Physiotherapy, Myotherapy, Exercise Physiology, Osteopathy, and Podiatry all under one roof, we aim to provide care through a holistic approach backed by evidence-based techniques.
25+ Years of Experience
Our practice has been providing skilled patient care to the local community in Kilmore and Wallan for more than 25 years. Our team is highly skilled, with a deep understanding of chronic tendon issues and a special interest in sport and chronic conditions.
Kilmore Wellness Centre
Think You Have Achilles Tendonitis?
You don’t have to grin and bear the chronic(*) pain caused by Achilles tendonitis. If you suspect that you have this condition, book your first appointment today with our team at Kilmore Wellness Centre.
Our welcoming environment and compassionate team of Physiotherapists, Myotherapists, Osteopaths, Podiatrists, and Exercise Physiologists are committed to supporting your health and well-being through highly skilled, evidence-based treatment. Book your appointment today.