Achilles Injuries

There are many issues that can affect the Achilles tendons, injury and consequences of damage are some of the more common problems presenting within our client base.

Achilles injury can be anything from a strain or pull, partial to full rupturing of the tendon. A damaged Achilles tendon can be more susceptible to rupture if care is not taken throughout the healing and rehabilitation period. If care isn’t taken during healing time, the tendon may tear, this can sound like a pop that seems to come from the back of the heel. This needs immediate medical attention and advice.

Injury in this area can take many weeks to heal depending on the age, physical condition and ability of the client. Tendonitis in the Achilles can develop causing swelling, inflammation and irritation.

Proper time needs to be allowed for swelling and healing to occur, this can be anything from 3-4 weeks to many months depending on the type of injury and the rehabilitation being advised by suitable medical practitioners to the client/patient.

There may be inability for the client to bend the foot downward or to ‘push off’ with the injured foot/leg when walking. An inability to stand on the toes on the injured foot/leg, or weight bearing very easily.

The foot and ankle need suitable medical care and attention firstly. Then the footwear needs to be supportive and comfortable. Swelling can be reduced by regular rest, elevation and icing to help bring down the inflammation.

Achilles injury or rupturing may take a long time to heal and need further treatments such as braces or surgeries, depending on the severity of the condition. A trained physiotherapist should be advising the client/patient of suitable exercise treatment plans to help bring back movement to the foot and ankle. Poor rehabilitation can result in limited plantar flex in the foot and a limited range of movements within the ankle.

Footwear may need to accommodate a brace and or orthotics. There may also be a resulting leg length difference due to these factors as well as tightening in the Achilles tendon itself.