Are you grappling with persistent heel pain that affects every step you take? If you’re one of the many suffering from Achilles tendinopathy, you know just how debilitating this condition can be, often sidelining you from the activities you love.
Achilles tendinopathy is a common ailment among runners, athletes, and even those who lead an active lifestyle, characterised by pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon. Unfortunately, many individuals try to push through the discomfort, only to find that it worsens over time. With a plethora of treatments available, from rest and ice to physical therapy, navigating the best approach can feel overwhelming.
Understanding the intricacies of podiatry treatments for Achilles tendinopathy is critical in your journey towards recovery. A specialised podiatrist can offer insights and solutions tailored to your unique needs, ensuring that your path to healing is efficient and effective.
What is Achilles tendinopathy?
Achilles tendinopathy is a painful condition that affects the Achilles tendon, a thick band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It’s most commonly caused by overuse and repetitive stress on the tendon, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the back of the ankle. Achilles tendinopathy is a common overuse injury, especially among athletes and active individuals.
Achilles tendinopathy is classified based on its severity:
1. Mild
Achilles tendon pain during or after specific activities (e.g. running).
2. Moderate
The Achilles tendon may enlarge. In some circumstances, a hard lump (nodule) might occur in the tendon.
- Severe
Achilles tendon soreness occurs with any weight-bearing activity. Occasionally, the Achilles tendon may rupture (rip). When an Achilles tendon ruptures, the sensation is described as a powerful smack on the heel.
Common causes of Achilles tendinopathy
- Overuse and repeated stress on the tendon.
- A sudden increase in activity level.
- Tight calf muscles.
- Wearing poor footwear that doesn’t fit properly.
- Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or inflammatory arthritis.
- Flat feet.
Common symptoms of Achilles tendinopathy
- Pain in your heel.
- Stiffness in your tendon.
- Swelling at the back of your ankle.
- Tenderness when you touch your tendon.
- A grating noise or creaking feeling (crepitus) when you move your ankle.
Can a podiatrist help with Achilles tendinopathy?
Podiatrists play a vital role in the effective treatment of Achilles tendinopathy, a condition causing pain and inflammation in the Achilles tendon. Here are some common treatment approaches:
1. Diagnosis and assessment of Achilles tendinopathy
Podiatrists conduct thorough examinations, including physical assessments and sometimes imaging tests, to confirm the diagnosis and identify the underlying cause of the tendinopathy.
2. Conservative treatments for Achilles tendinopathy
- Rest and activity modification: Resting the affected foot and modifying activities that aggravate the tendon are crucial for reducing inflammation and pain.
- Ice therapy: Applying ice packs to the affected area helps reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Compression: Using compression bandages or sleeves can help reduce swelling and provide support to the tendon.
- Elevation: Elevating the foot above the level of the heart can help reduce swelling.
- Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications may be recommended to manage tendon pain and discomfort.
- Stretching and strengthening exercises: A podiatrist can design a personalised exercise program to improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion in the calf muscles and Achilles tendon. Eccentric exercises, which involve lengthening the muscle while contracting it, are often beneficial.
- Custom orthotics: Orthotics can help correct biomechanical imbalances that may contribute to Achilles tendinopathy. They can also help redistribute pressure and reduce stress on the tendon.
3. Advanced treatments for Achilles tendinopathy
If conservative treatments fail to provide relief, podiatrists may recommend more advanced options:
- Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT): This non-invasive treatment delivers shock waves to the affected area, promoting tissue repair and reducing pain.
- Corticosteroid injections: Injections of corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation, but they should be used cautiously due to potential side effects.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: This involves injecting the patient’s concentrated platelets into the injured tendon to promote healing.
4. Surgery
Surgery is typically reserved for severe cases of Achilles tendinopathy that do not respond to conservative or advanced treatments. Surgical options may include debridement (removing damaged tissue) or tendon repair.
Important considerations for Achilles tendinopathy
- Early intervention: Seeking treatment early on can improve the chances of a successful outcome and prevent the condition from worsening.
- Adherence to treatment plan: Consistent adherence to the treatment plan outlined by the podiatrist is essential for effective management of Achilles tendinopathy.
Prevention: Maintaining a healthy weight, wearing appropriate footwear, and gradually increasing activity levels can help prevent Achilles tendinopathy.
Final thoughts
Seeking podiatry treatment for Achilles tendinopathy can be a game-changer in reclaiming your active lifestyle. Don’t let heel pain hold you back; instead, let it propel you towards recovery and resilience.
With the right care and expert guidance, you can step confidently back into the activities you love.
Book an appointment with one of our podiatrists to get help and support for your heels, ankles and lower legs so you can feel and move better.
