How to Cure Achilles Tendonitis Fast?

*By providing my details, I consent to receive assistance from Star Health regarding my purchases and services through any valid communication channel.

How to Manage Achilles Tendonitis Effectively

 

Achilles tendonitis is a common condition among runners and other athletes. When running, the calf muscles help to lift your body onto your toes. Repeating this motion without enough rest can weaken the muscle, leading to painful inflammation.

 

Treatment Options for Achilles Tendonitis

 

Achilles Tendonitis cannot be cured instantly. It takes time and consistent management. Here are some common treatments to treat Achilles tendinitis:

 

1. First Phase of Treatment (RICE)

 

Rest: Stop activities that stress your tendon. Try low-impact exercises, like swimming, that reduce strain.

Ice: Apply ice to your tendon for up to 20 minutes as needed throughout the day.

Compression: Use an athletic wrap or surgical tape to apply pressure to your tendon.

Elevation: To help reduce the swelling, you can raise your foot on pillows while lying down to a level where it is higher than your heart.

 

2. Home Care and Exercise

 

To protect your tendon, avoid walking on steep surfaces or overstretching, such as standing on a ladder. You can also reduce the pressure on the tendon by wearing:

 

● Avoid going barefoot. Instead, wear heel lifts, supportive shoes, or custom orthotics.

● A splint at night to keep your Achilles tendon stretched while you sleep.

● A walking boot or cast if your pain is severe.

● Home exercises, like calf stretches, are used to improve flexibility.

 

3. Therapy and Medication

 

Take a look at some additional nonsurgical treatments:

 

  • Physical therapy, which includes strengthening exercises, massage, stretching, and running re-education, to improve your condition.
  • Shockwave therapy uses sound waves to relieve pain and aid healing.
  • Basement is a treatment for early-stage Achilles tendinitis, where providers inject anaesthetic around your tendon to break up scar tissue. You may need this procedure multiple times.
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine as prescribed by your doctor.

 

If you still have pain after trying nonsurgical methods for almost 6 months, discuss surgery options with your provider. The physician can suggest treatments based on your injury and activity level.

 

4. Surgical Procedure

 

In rare cases, if there is a major damage in the Achilles tendon, your doctor might suggest surgical options, like:

 

  • Gastrocnemius Recession: The surgeon lengthens your calf muscles, specifically the gastrocnemius, to reduce the tightness.
  • Debridement and Repair: If most of your tendon is healthy, the surgeon removes the damaged part and stitches the healthy tendon together. You will need to wear a boot or cast for a few weeks after this.
  • Debridement with Tendon Transfer: If more than half of your Achilles tendon is damaged, you may need a tendon transfer. The surgeon will move the tendon that helps your big toe point down to your heel bone, allowing the damaged tendon to function better. You will still be able to move your big toe, walk, and run, but competitive sports may not be possible afterwards.
  • Hydrocision TenJet: This minimally invasive method uses high-velocity saline to break up scar tissue in the tendon.

 

Preventive Measures to Lower the Risk of Achilles Tendonitis

 

Achilles tendinitis may happen to anyone and may not always be prevented. However, here is how you can reduce its chances:

 

  •  Warm up before exercising or playing sports. Focus on stretching your calf muscles.
  • Mix different types of exercises to avoid putting too much stress on your Achilles tendon.
  • Gradually increase how long and intensely you exercise.
  • Stay active throughout the year to keep your muscles strong.
  • Wear supportive shoes that fit properly.
  • Avoid running uphill or on uneven surfaces.
  • Avoid over-exercising, especially in pain.

 

If you notice Achilles tendonitis symptoms, like pain or inflammation, stop your activity immediately and rest. Afterwards, consult with your healthcare provider about what to do next.

 

Diagnosing Achilles tendonitis

 

Usually, your provider can diagnose Achilles tendinitis by a physical exam to look for signs of Achilles tendinitis or a rupture. The intensity of treatment depends on how well you can move and the severity of the bone spurs.

 

However, at times, imaging tests are required to see more details about the condition, such as:

 

● X-ray

● Ultrasound

● MRI

● CT Scan

 

Based on the diagnosis, your healthcare provider will let you know whether you have acute or chronic Achilles tendonitis and suggest treatment accordingly.

 

Please note that treatment procedures may take a long time (from weeks to months) to recover, depending on the severity of the condition and intensity of treatment.

 

Also Read:

How to Cure Vertigo

 

How to Prevent Shin Splints

 

What are Macronutrients

 

What are Shin Splints

 

What are the 7 Functions of the Lungs

Disclaimer:
This FAQ page contains information for general purpose only and has no medical or legal advice. For any personalized advice, do refer company's policy documents or consult a licensed health insurance agent. T & C apply. For further detailed information or inquiries, feel free to reach out via email at marketing.d2c@starhealth.in