Achilles tendon injuries can range from mild inflammation (tendinitis) to a partial or complete tear.

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the human body and connects the calf muscles to the heel bone (calcaneus). It is responsible for transmitting the force generated by the calf muscles to the foot, enabling walking, running, and jumping. However, it is also prone to injury, especially in athletes who participate in sports that involve jumping or sudden changes in

direction.

Achilles tendon injuries can range from inflammation (tendinopathy) to a partial or complete tear.  Additionally, achilles tendinopathy can be divided into insertional (where it attaches to the bone) or non insertional (a few centimetres above the bone).

Symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury can include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty walking or running.

At Wickford Physiotherapy we are very effective at treating Achilles tendon injuries. The treatment approach typically involves a combination of manual therapy techniques, exercise therapy, and modalities such as ice, shockwave or laser therapy or acupuncture.

Manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue mobilisation, joint mobilisation, and stretching can help to reduce pain and inflammation, improve range of motion, and restore normal joint mechanics. Exercise therapy is also an important component of physiotherapy for Achilles tendon injuries. Specific exercises can help to strengthen the muscles around the ankle joint,

improve flexibility, and promote healing of the damaged tendon.

Modalities such as ice, shockwave or laser therapy can also be used to reduce pain and inflammation and promote tissue healing. One of our skilled physiotherapists will prescribe a treatment plan based on the severity of your injury and your individual needs and goals.

If you are experiencing Achilles tendon pain or have been diagnosed with an Achilles tendon injury, call us now to book, so our physiotherapists can treat you effectively and get you pain free and back to what you enjoy doing best faster.