Achilles Tendonitis / Tendinitis Tendinopathy

Achilles tendinopathy is a degenerative condition affecting the Achilles tendon. It is mainly caused by the inability of the Achilles tendon to adapt to stress or strain placed upon it causing small amounts of damage to the tendon fibres.

There are various risk factors for developing Achilles tendinopathy. They include:

• Age: Achilles tendinopathy is more common in people over 30 years of age.
• Gender: Men are more commonly affected by Achilles tendinopathy
• Weight: higher than average body weight increases the risk of developing achilles tendinopathy
• Tight/weak calf muscles
• Stiff joints in the foot
• Poor core stability

Symptoms

• Morning stiffness around the Achilles tendon, which may ease after few minutes of walking
• Tenderness over the Achilles tendon
• Pain

Treatment:

• Dry needling to reduce tightness of the calf muscles
• Footwear changes
• Modification of training routines if required
• Orthotics to reduce the tension stress on the achilles
• Joint mobilisation of the foot and ankle

For best management of your Achilles symptoms please visit Foot focus Podiatry in Perth by calling 9258 4152 or booking online.