Physiotherapy for Achilles Tendonitis: Rehabilitation and Recovery
At Central Health Rehab our physiotherapists are highly trained to detect and treat Achilles injuries. Achilles tendonitis is a common injury that affects the Achilles tendon, which is the large tendon located in the back of the lower leg. It is most often caused by overuse or improper form during physical activity. Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include pain and swelling in the back of the lower leg, as well as difficulty walking or participating in physical activity.
Our Whitby Physiotherapist will be able to provide an effective treatment option for a persons Achilles tendonitis. The goal of physiotherapy is to reduce pain, improve flexibility and strength in the Achilles tendon and surrounding muscles, and prevent the condition from recurring.
The first step that our Whitby physiotherapists do for Achilles tendonitis is to identify any underlying causes, such as improper form or inadequate footwear. Once these have been addressed, our Whitby physiotherapist will work with the patient to develop a personalized treatment plan. This may include a combination of stretching and strengthening exercises, ice therapy, and manual therapy techniques such as massage and joint mobilizations.
Stretching exercises are important in improving flexibility in the Achilles tendon and surrounding muscles. These may include stretches for the calf muscles and the muscles and tendons in the front and back of the lower leg. Strengthening exercises, on the other hand, help to improve muscle strength and support the Achilles tendon. These may include exercises such as calf raises or leg press.
Ice therapy can be used to reduce pain and inflammation in the Achilles tendon. Ice packs or cold compresses can be applied to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. It is important to wrap the ice pack in a towel to prevent frostbite.
Manual therapy techniques, such as massage and joint mobilizations, can help to improve mobility and reduce pain in the Achilles tendon. Massage can help to relax tight muscles and improve blood flow, while joint mobilizations involve gentle movements of the joint to improve range of motion.
Recovery from Achilles tendonitis can take several weeks to a few months, depending on the severity of the injury. It is important to be consistent with physiotherapy treatment and follow the prescribed exercises and stretches in order to achieve the best results. It is also important to avoid activities that may put too much strain on the Achilles tendon, as this can delay recovery.
In addition to treatment, there are also steps that can be taken to prevent Achilles tendonitis. These include wearing proper footwear, warming up before physical activity, and gradually increasing the intensity of physical activity. It is also important to stretch the calf muscles and Achilles tendon regularly to improve flexibility and reduce the risk of injury.
In summary, at Central Health Rehab our Whitby physiotherapist will be an effective treatment option for Achilles tendonitis. Our physiotherapist will treat the injury with a combination of stretching, strengthening, ice therapy, and manual therapy techniques to reduce pain, improve flexibility and strength in the Achilles tendon and surrounding muscles, and prevent the condition from recurring. Recovery from Achilles tendonitis can take several weeks to a few months and it is important to be consistent with treatment and avoid activities that may strain the Achilles tendon.
