Achilles Tendonitis

Here you will get an overview of the pathology, the ability to treat diseases with Oriental medicine, and with acupressure therapies along with other therapies combined.

The information is updated gradually and regularly. For reference only, not a substitute for your doctor.

Achilles tendonitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which is the largest tendon in the body (It is approximately 15 centimeters long and connects the calf muscles to the heel bone). The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, and it is responsible for enabling walking, running, and jumping. 

CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS:

The most common cause of Achilles tendonitis is overuse, which can occur due to intense physical activity, such as running, jumping, or sudden increases in physical activity. Other potential causes include improper footwear, a sudden change in the type of physical activity, tight calf muscles, and weak calf muscles. Additionally, risk factors for Achilles tendonitis include age, obesity, flat feet, and certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

SYMPTOMS:

The most common symptom of Achilles tendonitis is pain and stiffness in the back of the heel, which can worsen with physical activity. Other symptoms include swelling and tenderness in the affected area, difficulty walking, and a limited range of motion in the ankle.

PREVENTION:

Preventing Achilles tendonitis involves taking steps to reduce the risk of injury. This includes warming up properly before physical activity, wearing appropriate footwear, avoiding sudden changes in physical activity, and gradually increasing the intensity of physical activity over time. Additionally, maintaining good flexibility in the calf muscles can help reduce the risk of developing Achilles tendonitis.

TREATMENT:

The treatment of Achilles tendonitis depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, home remedies such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen can also be used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

In more severe cases, physical therapy may be necessary to strengthen the calf muscles and improve flexibility. In some cases, a brace or cast may be used to immobilize the affected area and promote healing. Surgery may be necessary in rare cases where conservative treatments have failed to provide relief.

ORIENTAL MEDICINE, ACUPUNCTURE, ACUPRESSURE...:

In recent years, traditional Oriental medicine practices such as acupuncture and acupressure have gained popularity as potential treatments for Achilles tendonitis. Acupuncture involves inserting needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of energy and promote healing. Acupressure involves applying pressure to specific points on the body with the fingers or hands to alleviate pain and promote healing.

While some studies have suggested that acupuncture and acupressure may be effective in treating Achilles tendonitis, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of these treatments.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, Achilles tendonitis is a painful condition that can be caused by overuse, improper footwear, and other factors. Preventing Achilles tendonitis involves taking steps to reduce the risk of injury, such as warming up properly before physical activity and wearing appropriate footwear. Treatment may involve home remedies, physical therapy, or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition. While traditional Oriental medicine practices such as acupuncture and acupressure may hold promise as potential treatments, further research is needed to fully understand their potential benefits.

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