Heel Pain Treatment for Achilles Tendonitis - By: Jessica Howard

For athletes, it is not uncommon to hear complaints about Achilles tendonitis. This is a form of injury caused by the inflammation and often accompanying swelling of the large tendon found at the back of the ankle. The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the body, and runs from the back of the ankle to about halfway up the calf. Its function is to lift the heel, which then moves the body weight onto the ball of the foot, therefore being vital for walking, running and jumping.

Usually Achilles tendonitis is caused by overuse, when an athlete over trains and the tendon becomes overworked or over stretched, usually causing pain in the back of the heel. Whilst overuse may be the main cause of the condition, the constant use of improper shoes which lack adequate support or are loose is often to blame. Gait irregularities such as overpronation, or the excessive rolling of the foot can also cause a great strain on the Achilles tendon and can lead to injuries. Studies have shown that as one ages, the body tissues, including the tendons, become less flexible and more susceptible to injury, causing them to become over worked much more easily. The heel pain associated with the problem is usually at its worst first thing in the morning and when you get up after sitting for a long period.

Heel pain treatment for Achilles tendonitis is varied, and includes the following options.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy to treat the injury includes stretching exercises, strengthening exercises, and cross-training. For stretching, you may try calf stretches to stretch the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles. Gently stretching improves flexibility and prevents pain from when the muscles become contracted, and suddenly stretched by activity. Strengthening exercises, on the other hand, include isometric and isotonic exercises. Meanwhile, cross-training exercises combine different forms of activities to reduce the work that the tendon is required to perform. A licensed physical therapist is the best person to advise on specific exercises to help with rehabilitation.

Manipulation

To help increase the range of motion of your ankles, you may also want to try manipulation techniques. One method includes manipulation of the small outer bone of the ankle to permit greater movement. This should be performed only by an osteopath, chiropractor or other trained medical professional.

Heel Lifts

Another way to heal Achilles tendonitis is to lessen the work that the tendon needs to perform, which is usually achieved with heel lifts, or heel seats. These devices are placed inside shoes. Make sure to also provide rest to your feet every once in a while, as wearing heel seats too often can actually weaken the tendon leading to further problems.

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) are effective painkillers for muscular and tendon injuries such as Achilles tendonitis, and are an effective heel pain treatment option. Take note, however, that steroid injections are generally avoided as whilst highly effective for treating the pain, they can cause the tendons to weaken, which could possibly lead to a rupture.

Surgery

If after following the conservative treatments for about a year, symptoms still appear, a surgical operation may be deemed necessary. One form of surgery is the lengthening of the Achilles tendon, which is done by making three incisions of 0.5 cm each. Surgery for Achilles tendonitis is usually taken only after conservative heel pain treatment has failed due to the complications which may arise after the surgery. After the surgery, the patient is recommended to perform strengthening and weight-bearing exercises for about two to three weeks. Engaging in sports activities may start three to six months after. Usually, full recovery can take six to eight months.

If you feel that you are suffering from Achilles tendonitis, you must immediately address your condition by following the non-operative treatment methods. An experienced doctor will be able to assess your symptoms and make an accurate diagnosis of your condition, and will suggest the best heel pain treatment options for your individual condition. . Ignoring the symptoms may worsen your case, leading to serious complications.

About the Author

Jessica Howard writes on foot health issues, and is a firm believer in prevention being the best heel pain treatment option. Proper footwear, adequate arch support and regular visits to a podiatrist are far better than a lengthy rehabilitation after an injury. pain under the heel means plantar fasciitis and heel spurs in most cases, and a different set of treatments

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Jessica-Howard/134680

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