Tendon Pain
Understanding Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles tendinopathy is a condition characterized by pain, stiffness, and swelling in the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is often caused by overuse or degeneration of the tendon, leading to discomfort and difficulty in performing daily activities. Understanding the causes and management strategies for Achilles tendinopathy can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
Common Causes
- Overuse: Repetitive activities such as running, jumping, or prolonged walking can strain the Achilles tendon, leading to tendinopathy.
- Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes that do not provide adequate support or cushioning can increase stress on the Achilles tendon.
- Sudden Increase in Activity: Rapidly increasing the intensity or duration of physical activities can lead to overloading of the tendon.
- Tight Calf Muscles: Lack of flexibility in the calf muscles can put additional strain on the Achilles tendon.
- Foot Mechanics: Flat feet or high arches can alter the biomechanics of the foot, increasing the risk of Achilles tendinopathy.
Prevention and Management Tips
- Gradual Increase in Activity: Increase the intensity and duration of physical activities gradually to avoid overloading the tendon.
- Proper Footwear: Wear supportive shoes with good cushioning to reduce stress on the Achilles tendon.
- Stretching: Regularly stretch your calf muscles to maintain flexibility and reduce tension on the tendon.
- Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening the calf muscles can help support the Achilles tendon and improve its resilience.
- Rest and Ice: Resting the affected foot and applying ice can reduce pain and inflammation.
Advanced Treatment Options For persistent Achilles tendinopathy, our clinic offers comprehensive assessments using pressure plate analysis. This advanced technology helps identify pressure points and abnormalities in your gait. Based on the results, we can create custom orthotics designed to alleviate pressure and provide support. Additionally, we offer advanced treatments such as shockwave therapy and MLS (Multiwave Locked System) laser therapy. Shockwave therapy promotes healing by stimulating blood flow and reducing inflammation, while MLS laser therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to reduce pain and promote tissue healing.
Comprehensive Achilles Tendinopathy Appointments If you suffer from Achilles tendinopathy, our comprehensive appointment is tailored for you. Our expert podiatrists will conduct a thorough examination, including gait analysis and pressure plate assessment, to understand the underlying causes. We will then develop a personalised treatment plan, including custom orthotics, stretching and strengthening exercises, shockwave therapy, and MLS laser therapy. Let us help you achieve better foot health and relief from Achilles tendon pain.
Call the biomechanics experts at The Worcester Podiatry Clinic on 01905 428434 in Worcester
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Kate Evans2025-06-10Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent service from start to finish. Steph Hart extremely professional and friendly. My feet feel amazing and I am grateful for her expertise. Ruth on reception was very welcoming, the experience I received was amazing, thank you, I will definitely return again and again. Julie Ashby2025-06-05Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very good experience today would highly recommend finn Richardson2025-06-02Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very knowledgeable and friendly, only my first visit but all good so far Laurence Green2025-05-21Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Limped in, pleasant chat and walked out just about fixed and understanding the condition. Can’t fault that! Lisa Kelber2025-05-15Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very helpful and friendly staff, gave good advice and treatment. Angela Jenkinson2025-05-15Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My father had an appointment and says that the staff were super friendly and that they have done a wonderful job. Alexis Beaumont2025-04-30Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As a new patient I was impressed with a Pattie's warm, friendly and very comprehensive approach. Such a lovely experience. Didn't feel like a Podiatry appointment at all. Highly recommended. AB Valentina Kuzmina2025-04-29Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patricia is great. Nice to meet you. Attentive, knowledgeable and beautiful. Linda Nicklin2025-04-02Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I wish I had discovered this place before. Lovely welcoming space, exceptionally professional service including a summary note of session and recommendations. Superb!