Physical Therapy for Achilles Tendon

The Achilles tendon connects the heel and the calf muscles. The thickest and strongest tendon in the body, the Achilles tendon enables you to stand on your toes, walk, run or jog. This critical tendon is easily strained and, according to Medi-Dyne Healthcare Products, more than 230,000 Achilles tendon injuries are reported in the U.S. per year. Treatments fall into four categories; relative rest, physical therapy, rehabilitation and prevention of recurrence.

Rest and Immobilization

• The first step in treatment for an injured Achilles tendon is rest and immobilization. Resting the tendon will help the inflammation subside and promote healing. Immobilization is only necessary for patients with very significant symptoms, such as a ruptured tendon. In this case, either a walking boot or a cast is recommended to help the inflammation decrease.
  It is important at this stage to apply ice for periods of 15 to 20 minutes to the area in order to help relieve the pain and decrease the inflammation.

Physical Therapy

• A number of physical therapy techniques are used for an injured Achilles tendon, including stretching and flexibility exercises, ultrasound heat therapy, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), massage, ice and wearing a night brace to prevent the tendon from tightening.
  To strengthen the Achilles tendon, stretch the calf muscles for at least 20 minutes every day. Start slowly to adjust your body weight and increase to three sets of 15. Also, perform thera-band exercises. Starting with your toes pointed, resist a thera-band that is hinged on your foot with the opposite side held in your hand. Slowly flex your foot while pressing against the band.

Rehabilitation

• Physical therapists can formulate stretching and rehabilitation programs that work on the flexibility of the Achilles tendon. In the case of ruptures, strength and flexibility need to be regained in the tendon or leg. A doctor or physical therapist can design a program for regaining this strength and flexibility at home or in the gym. This program might include flexibility and strength exercises; general stretches and exercises for overall conditioning; endurance activities; coordination activities and agility training.

Prevention

• While it is impossible for everybody to avoid Achilles tendon injuries all the time, prevention is key, especially when it comes to recurrences. Correct footwear is vital for preventing, recovering from and preventing recurrences of Achilles tendon injury. This includes wearing the correct shoe size and cushioning, using arch support, and using a heel wedge to shorten the length the Achilles tendon has to stretch with each step.
  Applying ice to the area of inflammation helps reduce the risk of severely injuring your Achilles tendon. By applying ice after exercising, as well as throughout the day, you can decrease your risk of injuring or re-injuring your tendon.
  Anti-inflammatory medicines such as Ibuprofen, Motrin and Naprosyn help reduce inflammation and promote healing, however, be sure not to overuse these medicines.