A tendon is the tissue that connects muscles to the bones. The majority of tendon injuries occur near the joint, such as the ankle in this case. Tendon injuries typically occur as a result of many tiny tears in the tendon from repetitive activity over time, but they can also have a sudden onset. Although tendonitis means inflammation of the tendon, tendon pain is rarely caused by inflammation, it is caused by tiny tears in the tissue in and around the tendon from overuse. This is known as tendinosis, however many people still refer to it as tendonitis.
Achilles tendonitis is inflammation of the Achilles tendon or the tissue that covers the Achilles tendon. Achilles tendonitis is usually caused by overuse, and is commonly seen in individuals who jog or participate in jumping activities, or activities with the same repetitive movements. Some common causes of Achilles tendonitis include over-training, flat feet, a high arch with a tight Achilles tendon, toe walking or constantly wearing heals, and poor supportive footwear.
Physiotherapy has shown to be effective in the management of Achilles tendonitis. If you return to your sport or activity too soon, or you do not complete your rehabilitation program, there is a greater chance of re-occurrence. A Physiotherapist will take a detailed history and complete a comprehensive assessment, to determine the root cause of your pain. With this information, the physiotherapist will develop an individualized treatment plan to treat your Achilles tendonitis. Based on the root cause of your Achilles tendonitis, and your symptoms, your individualized treatment plan may include:
- Manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue release, mobilization or manipulation
- An individualized exercise program including muscle strengthening and stretching. As you heal, the physiotherapist will progress your exercises to make them more functional to help prepare you to return to your sport or activity that caused the injury.
- Education on activity modification while you recover, supportive footwear, and how to prevent re-occurrence of the injury
- Orthotics or a heal lift may be recommended
- Modalities such as acupuncture, TENS, ultrasound, heat or ice
