Physical Therapy for an Achilles Injury

Achilles injury is a well-known issue in sports physiotherapy. However, it can happen to anyone, whether you’re an athlete or just going about your everyday life. The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the body. It is made up of a tough band of fibrous tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. The strength and flexibility of this tendon are important for walking, running, and jumping. It bears a lot of pressure and stress during everyday activities, including sports and recreational play.

Achilles injuries can be caused by tendonitis due to overuse or damage to the area or rupture, which can be a partial or complete tear. The common risk factors include starting a new sport, exercising on an uneven surface, wearing the wrong shoes during an activity, increased intensity of an activity, tight calf muscles, bone spurs, and individuals taking a fluoroquinolone. It is important to get the right diagnosis from a physician so you can get the right treatment from a physical therapy Dubai clinic.

How are Achilles injuries treated?

Achilles injury treatment depends on how badly injured the tendon is. Ice baths, ice massages, or cold compresses may be recommended to reduce swelling. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are usually prescribed for pain relief. With the help of a physiotherapist, a patient will undergo stretching and flexibility exercises to help the tendon heal without shortening and causing long-term pain. Strengthening exercises are also necessary to regain strength that may have been lost while the tendon was healing. In addition, deep massage is applied to increase flexibility and blood circulation in the lower leg.

Surgery may be considered for severe cases of Achilles tendon rupture. For instance, when the tendon has been torn into two pieces. A patient will most likely need post-operative physical therapy since total recovery time will probably be as long as 6 months. A physician or physical therapist will design a personalized program for the patient wherein the normal level of activity, physical fitness, and extent of injury are all taken into account. Rehabilitation will help in regaining strength and flexibility in the tendon and leg. It usually includes stretching and flexibility exercises, strengthening exercises, endurance activities, and coordination and/or agility training.

How can I prevent Achilles tendon injuries?

Pain can be very severe in Achilles injuries. A patient could go through complications such as difficulty walking or returning to an active lifestyle, warping of the tendon area, and rupture from re-injury. Warming up and proper stretching are crucial in preventing injuries to the Achilles tendon. It also helps to wear the correct shoes for your activities and to increase any activity slowly rather than all at once. Consult a doctor right away if you hear a “pop” sound and feel a sudden pain in your heel or back of your leg.

Experienced physical therapists of the Scandinavian Physiotherapy Center offer specialties concerning orthopedic and musculoskeletal injuries, including Achilles tendon repair rehabilitation. Their goal is to help you through your injury and back to playing your desired sport or activities. Book an appointment today by calling +971 4 551 6126.

 

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