Achilles tendinopathy is a common overuse injury affecting the Achilles tendon, the band of tissue connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is prevalent among athletes, especially runners, but can also affect non-athletes due to various factors such as age, poor footwear, or bio-mechanical issues. The condition can cause significant pain and hinder mobility, making effective treatment crucial for recovery and return to normal activity. In this blog Tom, a Myotherapist in Geelong explores how Myotherapy can assist in helping you heal your achilles.

What is Achilles Tendinopathy?

Achilles tendinopathy is characterized by pain, stiffness, and swelling around the Achilles tendon. It is often classified into two types:

1. Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy: Affects the lower part of the tendon, where it attaches to the heel bone.

2. Mid-portion Achilles Tendinopathy: Affects the middle section of the tendon, a few centimeters above the heel bone.

Both types can cause considerable discomfort and can be chronic if not managed properly.

Conventional Treatments for Achilles Tendinopathy

Treatment for Achilles tendinopathy typically begins with conservative approaches aimed at reducing pain and inflammation, promoting healing, and preventing recurrence.

The Role of Myotherapy in Treating Achilles Tendinopathy

Myotherapy, a form of physical therapy that focuses on the assessment, treatment, and management of musculoskeletal pain, can be particularly effective in treating Achilles tendinopathy. Myotherapists use a range of techniques to address the underlying causes of the condition and provide symptomatic relief.

1. Soft Tissue Massage: Tom a Myotherapist in Geelong can use deep tissue massage techniques targeted around the lower limb to reduce muscle tension in the calf muscles and improve blood flow to the affected area. This can help in alleviating pain and promoting healing.

2. Dry Needling: Using dry needling around muscles structures which as restricted can help reduce pain and improve muscle function. This technique involves inserting fine needles into trigger points to release muscle tension and promote healing. Dry needling can be highly effective when applied correctly.

3. Myofascial Release: A hands-on technique to release tension in the fascia (connective tissue) around the tendon and muscles, improving mobility and reducing pain.

4. Exercise Prescription: Tom is well equipped to prescribe exercises designed to load the achilles and strengthen the calf muscles. Eccentric loading exercises, where the muscle lengthens under tension, can be beneficial for Achilles tendinopathy.

5. Education and Advice: Providing patients with information on proper footwear, training and symptom modifications, and strategies to prevent recurrence of the condition is vital for positive outcomes. Achilles tendinopathy issues can take time to heal and require more than just deep tissue massage.

Combining Treatments for Optimal Results

Combining myotherapy with other treatments can enhance recovery outcomes for Achilles tendinopathy. For example, while myotherapy addresses muscle imbalances and tension, physical therapy can focus on specific strengthening and flexibility exercises.

Achilles tendinopathy, if left untreated, can significantly impact one's quality of life. An integrated approach combining conventional treatments with Myotherapy can provide comprehensive care, addressing both symptoms and underlying causes. By focusing on muscle health, flexibility, and proper biomechanics, Myotherapy plays a crucial role in the effective management and prevention of Achilles tendinopathy, helping individuals return to their activities stronger and pain-free.

If you are suffering from Achilles tendinopathy, feel free to fill out the contact form page and Tom will arrange to give you a call to find out if Myotherapy could be the treatment for you. Early intervention and a holistic approach can make a significant difference in your recovery journey.

Book online with Tom here Read another blog on Myotherapy and shoulder pain here