ACHILLES TENDONITIS

What is Achilles Tendonitis?

“Achilles Pain” is generally referred to pain at the back of the heel. It may be the Achilles tendon, bursa (retrocalcaneal bursa), tissue around the tendon (paratenditis), growth plate in children between 10 – 14 years old (Severe’s disease) and less frequently found – impingement at the back of the ankle or Achilles tendon rupture.

Causes of Achilles Tendonitis Pain

Achilles injuries usually occur as a result of:

• ‘Too much too soon’ – increased frequency and intensity of activity
• Excessive pronation (joint misalignment – subluxation) which causes increased load on the calf muscles
• Reduced recovery time between activities
• Change of footwear and / or training surfaces
• A decreased range of motion in ankle often caused by tight calf muscles
• Highly arched feet that have reduced ankle motion
• If heels are regularly worn this will result in the Achilles tendon to shorten, then when flat shoes are worn for exercises, stress will be placed on the tendon resulting in injury.​

How to treat Achilles Pain Naturally?

Treatment of Achilles pain will depend on why the pain is there in the first place. However general treatment may include:

• ​Ice, heat, anti-inflammatory medicines to reduce swelling and pain
• Wearing a heel raise to reduce strain on the tendon
• Calf (gastroc-soleal) stretches and/or strengthening
• Addressing underlying poor foot posture (subluxations) and footwear which is often the most common cause. This is essential if you want long term relief and correction of Achilles pain.

If you experience Achilles pain make an appointment with one of our Melbourne Podiatrists at the Foot Posture Centre. They are highly trained to identify the underlying cause and correct the poor foot posture naturally, allowing you to maximise your mobility and enjoy life.

Call one of our offices for a full comprehensive assessment.

Call either Ivanhoe 9499 2006 or Forest Hill 9877 0056