Achilles Tendonitis: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options.
Explore Achilles Tendon Treatment With Vitality Chiropractic Australia
Common Causes of Achilles Tendon Injuries
Achilles tendon injuries can occur due to a variety of factors, often related to overuse, improper biomechanics, or external influences. Some of the most common causes include:
- Sudden Increase in Activity Load: Rapidly increasing exercise intensity, frequency, or duration without proper conditioning, such as starting a new running program or intensifying workouts.
- Inadequate Rest and Recovery: Failing to allow sufficient recovery time after physical activity, leading to overuse injuries.
- Inappropriate Footwear: Wearing shoes that lack proper support or cushioning, such as unsupportive running shoes or high heels, can strain the Achilles tendon.
- Foot and Ankle Abnormalities: Conditions like flat feet, overpronation, or high arches can alter biomechanics and place excessive stress on the tendon.
- Hard or Uneven Surfaces: Exercising on unforgiving surfaces like concrete or uneven terrain can contribute to tendon irritation.
- Poor Calf Muscle Flexibility and Strength: Tight or weak calf muscles can reduce the tendon’s ability to absorb shock, increasing injury risk.
- Limited Ankle Joint Mobility: Restricted ankle range of motion can place additional strain on the Achilles tendon during movement.
By addressing these underlying causes, Vitality Chiropractic Australia helps patients prevent recurring injuries and promotes long-term Achilles tendon health.
Types of Achilles Tendon Injuries
1. Achilles Tendon Rupture or Partial Tear – An Achilles tendon rupture or partial tear occurs when the tendon is overstretched beyond its capacity, often during high-impact activities like sprinting, jumping, or pivoting. This injury may be accompanied by:
- A sudden, audible pop or crack at the back of the heel.
- Sharp pain and difficulty walking or pushing off the foot.
- Swelling or bruising around the ankle.
Certain factors, such as chronic illness (e.g., diabetes) or medications like corticosteroids, can weaken the tendon and increase the risk of rupture. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary, followed by a structured rehabilitation program to restore function. Our chiropractors work closely with patients to support post-surgical Achilles tendon recovery and non-surgical cases alike.
2. Achilles Tendinitis – Achilles tendinitis is an overuse injury characterized by inflammation or irritation of the tendon. It’s commonly seen in runners, joggers, and athletes involved in repetitive activities like jumping. Symptoms include:
- Burning pain or stiffness in the Achilles tendon, especially during or after activity.
- Reduced calf muscle flexibility, making it difficult to stretch the ankle.
- Tenderness or swelling near the heel.
If left untreated, Achilles tendinitis can progress to tendinosis, a degenerative condition that weakens the tendon and increases the risk of rupture. Early intervention is key to managing Achilles tendon pain relief.
How Are Achilles Tendon Injuries Diagnosed?
1. Physical Examination – Our chiropractors perform a thorough assessment of your lower leg, foot, and ankle. This may involve:
- Observing your gait (how you walk) and ability to stand on your toes.
- Conducting the Thompson test (calf squeeze test) to evaluate tendon integrity.
- Checking for associated conditions like plantar fasciitis, shin splints, or heel spurs, which may contribute to Achilles pain.
2. Patient History – We take a detailed history to understand the nature of your injury, including:
- The onset and quality of pain (e.g., sharp, burning, or dull).
- Aggravating or relieving factors (e.g., activities that worsen or ease symptoms).
- Recent changes in sporting activity, exercise routines, or footwear.
- Any past injuries or medical conditions that may affect tendon health.
3. Diagnostic Imaging – If further investigation is needed, we may refer you for imaging studies such as:
- Ultrasound: To assess tendon structure and detect tears or inflammation.
- MRI: For a detailed view of soft tissue damage, particularly in cases of suspected rupture.
Our goal is to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions, ensuring you receive the most effective Achilles tendon injury treatment.
Best Achilles Tendon Treatment Options
Six Stages of Achilles Tendon Rehabilitation
- Acute Pain Reduction
We focus on reducing pain and inflammation using techniques like soft tissue therapy, ice therapy, and gentle chiropractic adjustments to improve joint alignment and reduce stress on the tendon. This stage may also include advice on temporary activity modification to prevent further damage. - Restore Normal Range of Motion and Biomechanics
Restricted ankle mobility or improper biomechanics can prolong recovery. Our chiropractors use joint mobilization, stretching exercises, and corrective techniques to restore flexibility and optimize movement patterns. - Restore Eccentric Muscle and Soft Tissue Strength
Eccentric exercises (lengthening the muscle under tension) are critical for rebuilding tendon strength. We design progressive strengthening programs to target the calf muscles and Achilles tendon, promoting long-term tendon health. - Restore Concentric Muscle and Soft Tissue Strength
Concentric exercises (shortening the muscle under tension) help rebuild power and stability. These exercises ensure the tendon can handle the demands of daily activities and sports. - Restore Proprioception, Agility, and Power
We incorporate balance and agility training to improve proprioception (body awareness) and prevent re-injury. This stage prepares you for dynamic movements like running or jumping. - Facilitate Appropriate Return to Sport or Activity
Our chiropractors guide you through a gradual return-to-sport program, ensuring you’re ready to resume activities without risking re-injury. We provide advice on proper footwear, training modifications, and injury prevention strategies.
Chiropractic & Physiotherapy
Chiropractors & Physiotherapist’s are musculoskeletal therapists that are trained in sports injury management procedures. Hands on management that may be administered by such professionals may include:
- Mobilisation of the ankle and foot to improve range of motion and biomechanics as well as assessment of the knee, hip, pelvic and lumbar spine kinetic chain.
- Soft tissue therapy such as Massage or needling to the Achilles tendon to assist healing & appropriate blood flow.
- Physiological therapeutics such as Ultrasound, Shockwave therapy or low level laser to assist with inflammation.
Devices
If it is found that you have associated structural abnormalities other devices to assist your recovery may be recommended by your Chiropractor or Physiotherapist. Devices may include foot orthotics, ankle straps/braces and moon boots in serious cases.
Surgical Intervention
In worst case scenarios such as Achilles tendon rupture surgical intervention may be required. Surgery is aimed at stitching the tendon together to allow appropriate healing. As with all surgical intervention appropriate rehabilitation is recommended to assist with normal return to activity post procedure.
Why Choose Vitality Chiropractic Australia for Achilles Tendon Treatment?
We pride ourselves on delivering holistic care for Achilles tendon injuries. Our team of experienced sports chiropractors is dedicated to helping you achieve pain-free movement and prevent future injuries. Here’s why patients trust us:
- Personalized Treatment Plans: We tailor every treatment to your unique needs, ensuring optimal recovery.
- Evidence-Based Approach: Our methods are grounded in the latest research on Achilles tendon rehabilitation.
- Comprehensive Care: We address related conditions like plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and heel spurs to ensure a full recovery.
Chiropractor Achilles Tendon Research
- A combination of conservative rehabilitation strategies such as those implemented by Chiropractors and other allied health professionals can assist individuals suffering from Achilles tendon injuries return to normal activities of daily living in a timely manner. Papa, J. A (2012). Conservative management of Achilles Tendinopathy: A case report. The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 56(3); 216 – 224
- A specific treatment and rehabilitation protocol of heat, soft tissue mobilization, eccentric exercise, stretching, and cryotherapy assisted complete recovery from Achilles tendinopathy. Miners, A (2011). Chronic Achilles tendinopathy: A case study of treatment incorporating active and passive tissue warm-up, Graston technique, ART, eccentric exercise & cryotherapy. The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 55(4); 269 – 279.
Additional Information
If you’re seeking additional information regarding Achilles tendon injuries, management and other strategies please visit the Mayo Clinic.