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Understanding and Managing Achilles Tendinopathy

Luke Stocks  |  Senior Physiotherapist

Achilles tendinopathy is a prevalent source of discomfort for individuals across various
activity levels, from athletes to non-athletes. However, there’s good news: physiotherapy
offers effective strategies for managing this type of injury.

What Exactly is Achilles Tendinopathy?
Achilles tendinopathy refers to a specific type of injury affecting the Achilles tendon, the
tendon linking the calf muscles to the heel bone. This tendon plays a pivotal role in
facilitating movements such as walking, running, jumping, and climbing.
Two primary forms of Achilles tendinopathy exist:
Mid-Portion Achilles Tendinopathy: Involves the middle segment of the Achilles
tendon.
Insertional Tendinopathy: Affects the area where the Achilles tendon attaches to
the ankle bone (calcaneus).
Various factors can contribute to Achilles tendinopathy, including sudden increases in
activity, changes in footwear, overuse, or even a single traumatic incident. Additionally,
factors like lack of flexibility or stiffness in the Achilles tendon can exacerbate the
condition.

Identifying Symptoms
Symptoms of Achilles tendinopathy typically include:
● Pain in the Achilles tendon or its attachment points (heel or bottom of the calves)
● Stiffness during ankle movement
● Swelling behind the ankle
● Calf stiffness
● Reduced strength
● Morning pain or stiffness
● Limitations in activities like walking, running, or jumping

Understanding Risk Factors
Several factors increase the risk of developing Achilles tendinopathy, including:
● Gender: Males are more prone than females.
● Age: Individuals over 30 years old face a higher risk.
● Obesity
● High blood pressure
● Rapid changes in activity level or exercise type
● Family history of tendinopathy

Managing Achilles Tendinopathy at Sportspinal Health
At Sportspinal Health, we specialise in providing comprehensive physiotherapy
solutions tailored to manage Achilles tendinopathy effectively.
Our approach includes:
● Accurate Diagnosis: Our experienced physiotherapists diagnose your Achilles
pain precisely, ensuring tailored management plans.
● Treatment Modalities: We employ various techniques such as soft tissue work,
addressing biomechanical deficits, offering advice on load management,
planning for safe return to sport, and prescribing appropriate exercises.
● Personalised Care: Treatment plans are customised based on your specific
needs, considering the location and severity of your pain. We also emphasise
preventive strategies to reduce the risk of recurrence.
● At Sportspinal we have expert Physiotherapists, Osteopaths, Podiatrists, and Myotherapists who will work as a team to ensure you get the most appropriate treatment for your Achilles pain.

Don’t Let Achilles Pain Hold You Back
If you’re experiencing Achilles pain, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Visit Sportspinal
Health for expert evaluation and personalised treatment plans to help you overcome
Achilles tendinopathy and get back to the activities you love.

To learn more about our Hawthorn podiatrist Leshern Govender or Physiotherapist Luke Stocks visit our website… click here