What is Achilles Tendonitis ?
Achilles tendonitis occurs when the Achilles tendon, which connects the two main calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) to the back of the heel, becomes inflamed. This tendon is responsible for forcefully pulling the foot downward while still allowing flexibility to bend the foot upward during activities like running. Tightness in these calf muscles, combined with limited flexibility, can overexert the Achilles tendon, leading to tendonitis.
Who is Typically Affected and Symptoms to Watch For:
Achilles tendinitis often affects athletes and active individuals who routinely engage in repetitive running or jumping. However, it can also occur in non-athletes, typically those who have tight calf muscles, abnormal foot structures, or wear inadequate footwear. It is also more common in people aged 30 to 50 due to a loss of tendon elasticity.
Key symptoms to watch out for include sharp pain near the heel, stiffness, swelling, and warmth along the tendon. Pain typically worsens with activity and may cause morning stiffness or tenderness when touched, with a reduced range of motion and difficulty standing on your tiptoes.
How can we Help ?
At PhysioMax Wellness, our skilled physiotherapists, Nils Perez, Vania Perez and Brandon Conforti, are equipped to help treat Achilles tendinitis by focusing on strengthening and enhancing the flexibility of your calf muscles, reducing pain, and promoting tendon healing. Treatments may involve therapeutic ultrasound, shockwave therapy, soft tissue mobilization, eccentric exercises, and orthotic recommendations to improve foot mechanics.
Our chiropractic doctor Mohit Sharma can provide chiropractic care which further supports your recovery through gentle mobilization of stiff joints and release of tight muscles, even addressing areas higher up in the body. Light stretches, TENS therapy for pain relief, acupuncture, or dry needling may also promote healing and relieve pain. Early treatment is essential to prevent excessive tearing or scarring of the tendon.