Achilles Tendon – Achilles Tendinitis

The Achilles tendon crosses the back of the heel. When muscle contracts it rides over the bone. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon is usually very painful. All the weight of the body is supported by this structure and footwear usually presses against the area. Repetitive stress into the tendon may result in inflammation which causes further inflammation and irritation.

Achilles tendinitis can be caused by activities like running, basketball, volleyball and jumping sports.

Excessive pronation and inappropriate footwear may result in inflammation in the tendon.

Cause of injury

Repetitive stress from jumping and running. Improper footwear or wrong landing pattern of the foot when running. Achilles tendon and calf Untreated injuries.

Achilles Tendinitis symptoms

Pain is caused by the contraction of the calf muscle. Tenderness and pain in the tendon. Swelling can occur. Jumping and running are difficult.

Achilles Tendinitis complications if not treated

If left untreated inflammation in the tendon may result in deterioration of the tendon and rupture. Inflammation can lead to a tightening of the tendon and attached muscle which could lead to tearing.

Achilles Tendinitis treatment

Ice treatment. Rest, reduce or stop any sports activities. Anti-inflammatory diet or medication. Then heat and massage to encourage blood circulation and healing.

Achilles Tendinitis rehabilitation and prevention

After a rest period of 5-10 days stretching and strengthening exercises can be beneficial. Heat treatment on the tendon could be used to warm the tendon properly before exercising. Proper warm-up, together with stretching and strengthening exercises for the calves. It will help prevent tendinitis of the Achilles tendon.

Long-term prognosis

Tendinitis usually heal well. Tendinitis can take from five days to several weeks to heal properly. Occasionally needs surgery to repair it.

Achilles Tendon Treatment – Achilles Tendinitis massage in Watford

Sports massage is focused on the tendon and calf muscles like gastrocnemius, soleus and plantaris muscles located in the lower half of the leg. A massage involves various techniques aimed to reduce pain and improve recovery. An Achilles tendon pain massage aims to relieve muscle tightness and improve blood flow. It will help with full recovery, and help a person return to exercise soon. Our massage therapists at Lucas Massage Therapy use tendon and calf massage to treat muscle tightness, tension and pain.

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Achilles tendon exercises