Achilles tendinopathy is an injury of the Achilles (uh-KILL-eez) tendon, the band of tissue that connects calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to your heel bone. It is typically due to overuse and/or excessive, chronic stress placed upon the tendon.

Pain associated with Achilles tendinopathy typically starts as an ache in the back of leg or just above heel after running or other sports. Clients may also experience tenderness or stiffness, that is worse in the morning and eases with mild activity.

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

•  Activity modification: recommending which activities to perform and which activities to avoid 
•  Controlled tendon loading: providing a supervised strengthening program, gradually increasing strain on the tendon
•  Electrotherapeutic modalities: use of certain modalities (machines) such as shockwave, or ultrasound which help stimulate your bodies natural anti-inflammatory/healing properties
•  Kinesiotaping: using flexible tape to take pressure/load off tendons, or alter foot posture
•  Stretching: exercises to improve the length of muscles of the leg and feet
•  Manual Therapy: utilizing soft tissue, assisted stretching, manual release and/or cross friction massage techniques

As everyone’s situation is unique always consult a registered health professional to help create a management plan that’s effective and safe for you!

Happy HEEling!