Achilles tendinitis is a very common problem. It is one of the problems that I really like to see at our clinic. This is for a number of reasons. The biggest reason is that we have developed some protocols that are extremely effective. Surprisingly, most clinics have great difficulty treating this and are not aware of all the treatment options. Achilles tendinitis is due to a number of different problems. From a biomechanical standpoint, the Achilles tendon is subject to tremendous force as you're walking or running and your heel comes up off the ground. In addition there are additional forces from side to side. It is the side to side forces that seem to cause additional mechanical shearing and stress to the Achilles tendon. It is important to address both the inflammatory component of the problem and the mechanical component.
From a mechanical standpoint it's important to have prescription orthotics that help address the side to side stress that occurs during weightbearing phase of gait. This includes controlling both excessive pronation and supination. In addition there are special braces made just for Achilles tendinitis. Again it is surprising how he clinics have never heard of these braces and are not aware of how effective they can help complement our treatments. From a mechanical standpoint, eccentric loading of the Achilles tendon and calf muscle is extremely effective.
Eccentric Achilles strengthening exercises are part of our treatment protocol. General calf stretching is always helpful and a night splint can help complement this. The icing on the cake especially for resistant cases is shockwave therapy. This is available at our clinic and is extremely effective. There is no down time with this and no injection is required or anesthetic.
Finally for the most resistant cases sometime surgery is necessary. This may involve procedures with Achilles tendon and it may also involve procedures for the gastroc tendon such a gastrocnemius recession especially for those individuals with extremely tight limited ankle joint range of motion. It is extremely rare to have a case have to go onto surgery at our clinic. If you have Achilles tendinitis or Achilles symptoms please let us know and we will be happy to help. Both Dr. Nelson and Dr. Young utilize these treatment protocols.
