Commonly known as Achilles Tendonitis, Achilles Tendinopathy is usually characterised by degeneration of the tendon (the Achilles tendon is situated above the heel and forms the lower part of the calf muscles). The degeneration means that the tendon does not possess its normal tensile strength and may be liable to rupture with continued sporting activity.
Achilles Tendinopathy usually comes on gradually, and is more common in those aged over 40. There is pain, which is worsened by activity, and the focal areas of degeneration feel tender to touch. Often the tendon feels very stiff first thing in the morning. The affected tendon may appear thickened in comparison to the unaffected side.
Training errors should be avoided. The intensity, duration and frequency of training sessions should be carefully monitored and gradually progressed. Sudden increases in these variables should be avoided. Muscle strength and flexibility should be maintained through regular strengthening and stretching sessions.
It is thought that an 'over pronated' foot position (where the foot rolls inwards) can place excessive strain on the Achilles tendon and lead to Achilles Tendinopathy. In this case it is often useful to consult a chartered physiotherapist, who can carry out a biomechanical assessment (an assessment of posture at rest and during walking and running). If there is excessive pronation it is usually effective to insert an arch supporting insole that can help to correct the problem.
The key to recovering from Achilles Tendinopathy is in trying to elicit a healing response without overloading the tendon. This requires rest from sporting activities for up to three months. This is because the collagen tissue, which the body produces to repair the tissue damage, takes three months to lay down and mature.
Published research has suggested that recovery is optimised by using a programme that uses what is called 'eccentric muscle work'. Eccentric muscle work refers to a muscle that is lengthening while contracting - a contraction that occurs during movements such as landing and decelerating. Maximum tension is generated in the muscle during the eccentric contraction and this causes the tendon to adapt and get stronger.
The Aircast AirHeel™ can be very effective in relieving heel pain due to Achilles Tendinopathy. By applying compression to the heel and the arch of the foot, the AirHeel™ relieves strain on the Achilles tendon. This can give rapid relief to those suffering with Achilles Tendinopathy.
|
|
High quality patented strap used to provide Achilles Tendon pain relief. Ideal for runners who need symptomatic relief....
An active support for the relief of Achilles tendon pain and following Achilles tendon ruptures....![]()
(1 review)
Lightweight night splint sock that relieves Plantar Fasciitis by stretching the sole of the foot...![]()
(7 reviews)
Fantastic! Our best selling heel support for heel pain and Plantar Fasciitis. Lightweight and...![]()
(8 reviews)
An arch support designed to relieve foot pain caused by Plantar Fasciitis....![]()
(1 review)
Durable 4mm shock absorbing heel pads, with excellent 36 month life expectancy. Designed to wear under existing insole. ...
NEW!3/4 length arch supporting, anti pronation orthotics for narrow toed...![]()
(4 reviews)
NEW!Fabric lined gel cushion heel pads with, to relieve heel pain during...![]()
(1 review)
Shock absorbing heel pads that provide extra cushioning, shock absorption and lift to the heel...![]()
(1 review)
NOW 30% LIGHTER Shock absorbing insoles that provide extra cushioning for the heel...![]()
(2 reviews)
BEST SELLER!Orthotic insoles that provide increased stability and support for the...![]()
(1 review)
3/4 length insoles with soft cushions for the arch of the foot, suitable for 'hard to fit' shoes. ...![]()
(2 reviews)
NEW!A pair of 3/4 length Impact Gel insoles, to relieve foot pain in...![]()
(1 review)
BEST SELLER!A 'cutting edge' shock dissipating material with a unique carbon...![]()
(1 review)
NEW!A pair of thin (6mm) silicone gel heel cushions, with extra soft blue...![]()
(1 review)
BEST SELLER!Ultra soft, high quality heel cups - provide the ultimate in shock...![]()
(2 reviews)
SAVE UP TO 75%!A mouldable pack that becomes an instant, single use ice pack,...![]()
(1 review)
SAVE UP TO 60%!Reusable, 25cm x 17cm (10" x 7") mouldable gel pack that can be used...![]()
(1 review)
NEW!The ultimate calf ice therapy. Provides 6 hours continuous cold and compression to minimise...
Deep Relief dual action gel with ibuprofen is a clear, non-sticky and non-greasy gel with a mild,...![]()
(2 reviews)
Easy to use dual channel digital TENS machine for effective pain relief featuring seven preset...![]()
(3 reviews)
Latex Bands provide light, medium to heavy resistance during training exercises and are designed for increasing strengthening...
Made from buoyant, lightweight foam the Foam Water Noodle is ideal for use as a floating and buoyancy device and is suitable for...
5 Exercise loops with foam hand grips made for rehab and training exercises. ...
Exercise loop with foam hand grips made for rehab and training exercises. ...
The Water Floatation Belt is ideal for early non weight bearing cardiovascular training as its...![]()
(1 review)
NEW Latex Bands provide light, medium to heavy resistance during training exercises and are designed...
Superb value, 8 x 1m length resistance bands in all 4 varying strengths, for use during rehab exercises for the shoulder, ankle,...
The AquaJogger 100 is a floatation belt. One particular benefit is that it allows an early return...![]()
(1 review)
Non-dated, 52 week running log with helpful information for runners, for optimising the effectiveness of any training plan It is...
Receive our latest news and offers.