ACHILLES TENDONITIS

Firstly the  physiotherapist will perform a biomechanical assessment to determine predisposing factors. Tight muscle groups, leg length differences and poor foot biomechanics will be adressed. It is also helpful to examine footwear -especially sports shoes. Unusual of asymmetric wear patterns may be detected.

Treatment can then be prescribed appropriately. Biomechanics may need to be improved with shoe inserts or orthotics. Superficial dry needling,  Electrotherapy such as ultrasound and interferential can help ease pain and inflamation.  Recent reasearch indicates the ESWT Extracorpeal Shockwave therapy can help even chronic cases that have been resistent to conventional physiotherapy.

An exercise program will then be prescribed to strengthen the tendon and stretch tight muscles in the legs.

Stretching any tight leg muscles can be helpful. The physiotherapist will check all lower limb muscle groups for flexibility. If any groups are found to be tight stretches will be prescribed.

Tendon strengthening involves a very specific type of exercise known as eccentric loading/eccentric strengthening. Achilles tendonitis exercises will utilize the calf muscles.Your physiotherapist will carefully instruct you in an appropriate program. The individualised exercise program will be emailed in video format with description  to the patient.