Achilles tendinopathy
Achilles tendinopathy (formerly known as Achilles tendonitis) is a common condition that affects the Achilles tendon, which is the thick band of tissue that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. Symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness or weakness in the heel, back of the ankle and lower calf. Typically, symptoms are worse in the morning or after long periods of rest. The pain can be aggravated by physical activity, walking or running.
Causes and risk factors:
Overuse: The primary cause of Achilles tendinopathy is overuse or repetitive stress on the tendon. This often occurs in athletes who engage in activities like running or jumping, or people who spend long periods of time standing, for example retail workers.
Age: As people get older, the Achilles tendon becomes weaker and less flexible, therefore more prone to injury.
Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes that don’t provide adequate support or fit can contribute to Achilles tendon issues.
Training Errors: Increasing the intensity, duration or frequency of an exercise regime too quickly can lead to injury of the tendon. Poor running technique can also be a factor. Training on hard ground or doing lots of hill running also increases the likelihood of Achilles tendon problems.
Tight muscles: Having poor flexibility in the backs of the thighs or calves can increase physical stress on the Achilles tendon, making it more prone to injury.
What can I do to help if I have an Achilles tendon problem?
There are many things you can do to help improve an Achilles tendinopathy. These include:
Reduce the load on your feet by reducing or resting from high-impact exercise such as running or jumping or by reducing the amount of time spent standing.
Ensure you’re wearing proper fitting shoes that have good arch supports, cushioned soles and a slight heel.
Applying ice packs onto the heels can help reduce pain.
Are there any treatments that help plantar fasciitis?
There are various treatments available at Castle Clinic that can help Achilles tendinopathy, including:
Acupuncture – our acupuncturists use acupuncture needles to stimulate circulation to the feet, promote healing, reduce inflammation and pain.
Laser therapy – using this state-of-the-art technology, we can use therapeutic laser to help reduce inflammation, increase circulation and promote healing of the Achilles tendon.
Osteopathy – using joint mobilisation, stretches and massage of the feet and legs, the osteopaths aim to improve the biomechanics of the legs and feet, and improve circulation to promote healing of the injured tendon. The osteopath will also provide advice on when and how to return to any activity that you are unable to participate in.
Physiotherapy – using exercise prescription, the physiotherapist will advise on stretching exercises and progressive strengthening to improve the mobility and resilience of the soft tissues of the legs and feet and encourage healing.
Podiatry – our podiatrist will assess foot health, biomechanics and footwear and use a range of techniques to help the Achilles tendon recover, including using foot joint mobilisations and making custom orthotics.
Shockwave therapy – in persistent cases, this pioneering technology loads the injured Achilles tendon with pressure and sound waves in a controlled manner to regulate inflammation, reduce pain and promote healing.
If you are struggling with calf and heel pain and would like to make an appointment, please visit our booking page or call reception on 01423 797800.
Grant Ellis2024-01-24As someone who has suffered with lower back pain for some years, I have found that the osteopathic treatment I’ve had at Castle Clinic, followed by monthly ‘maintenance’ appointments has made a huge difference to my well-being. The practitioners and reception staff are all very friendly and caring, creating a relaxed atmosphere. I have recommended Castle Clinic to friends and family who are are all very impressed with their treatment.
James Towler2024-01-23I consult Jon Rebanks for physiotherapy when I need treatment the aches and pains we all get in life from time to time. I always feel that I am working with the best physio in the Harrogate area.
Paul Williams2024-01-22Excellent physio. Jon has been able to help me get back the full movement of my shoulder - which had been causing me pain for a number of years. He's massively improved my golf swing with the exercises and treatment he provided. He is also a really nice person.
Richard Jackson2024-01-20Jonathan (Jon) Rebanks is an excellent Physiotherapist, he has treated me for back pain, for a few years now and he certainly came into his own last year after I cracked 3 ribs and fractured my vertebrae. He has a pleasant manner, and comes highly recommended for his skills. C Richard Jackson MBE DL
Gillian Green2024-01-18I’ve been going to Castle Clinic for help with a back problem which I’ve had for 3+ years. I have been treated by Simon with Osteopathy and acupuncture. Both of these helped but it kept recurring. Simon did a taster session with the shockwave treatment, it made a huge difference. Sadly he left the practice and recommended I saw Daniel who did the same kind of treatments as him. I saw Daniel a couple of times and he mentioned the taster session I had with Simon with the shockwave treatment and thought it would cure rather than help the problem. I was having back spasms every 6 days which lasted for 4 days and the pain was awful. I had a course of 3 treatments, 1/week and I’ve been pain free for 21/2 months. I can’t recommend this treatment enough it has got me off all the prescription drugs and more importantly I’m able to do everything… Thank you so much Daniel and Simon
Richard2024-01-17Excellent service. Physiotherapy. Jon Rebanks swiftly found the underlying cause of a long standing problem. The combination of his treatments and exercises to take away, has put me right direction
Sandra Marks2024-01-15A slightly uncomfortable treatment at times but talked through and handled expertly by Daniel. This treatment is decreasing my foot and Achilles pain and any stiffness has been greatly reduced.
Gareth Welburn2024-01-14Pedicare. Good place. See Sarah.
Peter Drew2024-01-12I have been attending many visits to Castle Clinic Physiotherapy department with an annoying problem with my left shoulder following a fall some years ago. Following many treatments I am pleased to confirm that I am back to full health and can continue to play many games of golf. Thank you Jon Rebanks for all your help all all the very best for the New Year. Peter Drew
Catherine O'Sullivan2024-01-11I have been coming to Castle Clinic for over 20 years, primarily for Osteopathic treatment to aid my Rheumatoid Arthritis and other ailments as they continue to present themselves in feet, neck and shoulders. All members of my family have also been looked after with great care and professionalism and I continue to recommend friends for consultations and treatment. Sebastian Contreras and his team are all very experienced and demonstrate great empathy toward their patients. You will be glad you went.