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Best physical therapist for Achilles tendinitis in Charleston, SC | The Rehab Docs

How to Treat Achilles Tendinitis with Physical Therapy

Do you have pain in the back of your ankle that’s been plaguing you for weeks? You may be experiencing Achilles tendinitis, a common yet painful condition caused by inflammation in the Achilles tendon. The great news is that physical therapy can be an effective treatment for this condition and provide long-term relief. Let’s take a look at some of the best physical therapy exercises for Achilles tendinitis that can help you get back on your feet and living life without pain.

The primary goal of physical therapy for Achilles tendinitis is to reduce pain and inflammation while strengthening the muscles around the area. Here are some common physical therapy treatments that can help accomplish this goal:

  • Stretching: Stretching is important because it helps improve flexibility and range of motion around the ankle joint. A physical therapist will guide you through stretching exercises to target both the calf muscles and the Achilles tendon itself. It's important to do these stretches carefully and slowly, as over-stretching can cause further injury.
  • Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening exercises help build up strength in the muscles surrounding your ankle joint, which can help reduce pain caused by Achilles tendinitis. Common strengthening exercises include calf raises, mini-squats, leg lifts, toe taps, and more. Your physical therapist will be able to design a customized exercise plan based on your individual needs and abilities.
  • Ice Therapy: Ice therapy is used to reduce swelling and inflammation in the affected area. Applying ice several times a day (for 15 minute intervals) can help reduce discomfort caused by Achilles tendinitis. Your physical therapist may also recommend using heat or cold compresses before or after exercising as well as using topical ointments or creams to provide localized relief from pain or swelling.
  • Massage Therapy: Massage can help relax tight muscles around the ankle joint and increase circulation throughout the area, which helps reduce swelling and inflammation caused by Achilles tendinitis. Massage techniques such as trigger point release, myofascial release, deep tissue massage, cross-fiber friction massage may be recommended by your physical therapist depending on your specific needs and goals.

 

Conclusion:

Achilles tendinitis doesn't have to keep you from living life to its fullest! With proper diagnosis from a medical professional combined with regular physical therapy treatments such as stretching, strengthening exercises, ice therapy and massage therapy - you'll be able to get back on your feet quickly so you don't miss out on any fun activities due to foot pain! If you're looking for relief from chronic foot pain due to Achilles tendinitis - consider speaking with a qualified physical therapist today! With their expertise - they'll be able to create a personalized plan designed specifically for you so that you're able to start enjoying life without foot pain once again!

The Rehab Docs
✆ Phone (appointments): 843-749-8848
✆ Phone (general inquiries): 843-834-6406
✆ FAX: 949-561-4435
Address: 145 River Landing Dr., Charleston, SC 29492