Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Achilles Tendonitis
What is achilles tendonitis?
The Achilles tendon is the large tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Achilles tendonitis (also known as Achilles tendinopathy) occurs when this tendon becomes inflamed and painful. Physiotherapy plays a key role in the treatment and recovery of Achilles tendonitis.
How does achilles tendonitis happen?
Achilles tendonitis is a relatively common overuse injury of the Achilles tendon. It most often affects people who take part in sports or activities that involve frequent running, jumping, or sudden changes of direction.
Repetitive use of the calf muscles and the Achilles tendon can cause microscopic tears within the tendon. The body responds with an inflammatory process to repair these tears. While this initial inflammation is part of normal healing, repeated stress and prolonged inflammation can lead to local tissue damage.
What are the symptoms of achilles tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis causes pain at the back of the ankle, just above the heel bone. The pain normally develops gradually. At first, the Achilles tendon may only be painful after exercise. There may also be stiffness or tightness in the ankle. These early signs are often ignored, as they can ease with walking or applying heat to the back of the ankle. However, if the tendonitis continues to be aggravated, the condition can worsen. The pain may become more intense and frequent, eventually being present all the time. Other symptoms can include:
- Swelling along the Achilles tendon
- Tenderness when the tendon is touched or squeezed
- A creaking or grating feeling (crepitus) when moving the ankle
- Pain and stiffness in the morning or after periods of rest
- Weakness in the calf when pushing off or standing on tiptoe
What should I do if I have achilles tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis generally does not settle without physiotherapy. If you suspect that you have Achilles tendonitis, you should arrange a physiotherapy assessment as soon as possible. In the meantime, you can help manage your symptoms by:
- Applying ice to the Achilles tendon using a bag of frozen peas or crushed ice wrapped in a damp cloth
- Keeping the ice in place for 15–20 minutes every couple of hours
Physiotherapy treatment for achilles tendonitis.
Physiotherapy is essential in the treatment of Achilles tendonitis. Initially, your physiotherapist will assess and diagnose your injury before creating an individualised treatment plan. Treatment may involve:
- Reducing pain and inflammation through ice therapy and electrotherapy techniques
- Soft tissue massage and mobilisations to relieve tension in the calf and Achilles tendon
- Stretching exercises to improve muscle flexibility and ankle mobility
- Strengthening exercises, particularly eccentric loading of the calf muscles
- Biomechanical assessment and correction, including orthotics if required
- Advice on footwear and training modifications to prevent recurrence
What shouldn’t I do if I have achilles tendonitis?
If you have or suspect you have Achilles tendonitis, you should not ignore the problem. Although the pain may initially ease when you exercise, continuing with activity is likely to interfere with the healing process, cause further damage to the tendon, and ultimately delay your recovery.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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