Achilles tendinitis is a common overuse injury that affects the Achilles tendon, the largest tendon in the body which connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. It can cause pain and swelling, making it difficult to walk or even stand.
Fortunately, physical therapy can help to minimize the pain and improve mobility. Achilles tendinitis is commonly caused by an overuse of the Achilles tendon. This can be due to activities that involve repetitive jumping, running or walking on hard surfaces. It can also be caused by tight calf muscles or flat feet.
Physical therapy is a great way to treat achilles tendinitis because it focuses on strengthening the calf muscles and improving the range of motion in the ankle joint. It also helps to improve the flexibility of the two calf muscles, gastrocnemius and soleus. This can be done through stretching and strengthening exercises, and soft tissue mobilization.
One important component of treatment for achilles tendinitis is eccentric loading of the tendon. Eccentric loading is when there is controlled lengthening of the tendon while it is under load. This helps to strengthen the tendon, improving load tolerance and function.
Research has shown that physical therapy is an effective method for treating Achilles tendinitis. A study conducted by the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine found that 73% of the patients in the study who received physical therapy had reduced symptoms and improved mobility after six months.
In addition to physical therapy, other treatments such as orthotics and bracing can be used to reduce the stress on the Achilles tendon and improve mobility.
If you are suffering from Achilles tendinitis, physical therapy can help to reduce your pain and improve your mobility. With the right treatment plan, you can get back to your normal activities in no time.
References:
1. Maffulli, N., Longo, U.G., Loppini, M., Denaro, V. (2009). Effectiveness of physical therapy in patients with Achilles tendinopathy: a systematic review. The American journal of sports medicine, 37(9), 1776-1784.
2. van der Plas, A., de Jonge, S., Weir, A., van der Worp, H., & van Schie, H. T. (2018). Eccentric exercise versus eccentric exercise combined with manual therapy for chronic achilles tendinopathy: a randomized clinical trial. The American journal of sports medicine, 46(5), 1111-1119.
3. Rees, J. D., Stride, M., & Scott, A. (2009). Eccentric exercises in the management of tendinopathies. Physical therapy in sport, 10(2), 57-66.
4. Mafi, N., Lorentzon, R., Alfredson, H., & Thorsen, K. (2002). Eccentric training in athletes with chronic Achilles tendinosis: a one-year follow-up. The American journal of sports medicine, 30(4), 551-556.
Comments