What helps with Achilles tendonitis 2024?

As a medical professional with a focus on sports injuries, I can provide you with a comprehensive approach to managing Achilles tendonitis. This condition is a common overuse injury that occurs when the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed, often due to repetitive stress on the tendon from activities such as running or jumping.

Rest is the first and foremost step in treating Achilles tendonitis. It is essential to give your tendon the time it needs to heal by avoiding activities that strain it. This includes high-impact exercises and sports that involve a lot of jumping or running. Resting doesn't mean complete inactivity; it means avoiding the specific movements that exacerbate the condition.

Icing the affected area is another crucial component of treatment. Applying ice to the Achilles tendon can help reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. It's recommended to apply an ice pack wrapped in a thin towel for 15-20 minutes several times a day, especially after activity.

Nonprescription pain relievers such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be beneficial in managing pain and reducing inflammation. It's important to follow the directions on the label and consult with a healthcare provider if you're unsure about the dosage or if you're taking other medications.

In addition to these immediate steps, there are several other strategies that can aid in recovery:


1. Physical therapy can be very helpful. A physical therapist can provide you with specific exercises to improve the strength and flexibility of your calf muscles and Achilles tendon.


2. Orthotics or shoe inserts may be recommended to correct any biomechanical issues that could be contributing to the problem.


3. Gradual return to activity is important. Once the pain has subsided, you can slowly reintroduce activity, but it's crucial to do so gradually to avoid re-injury.


4. Proper warm-up and stretching routines before and after exercise can help prevent future occurrences of Achilles tendonitis.


5. Cross-training with low-impact activities such as swimming or cycling can maintain fitness without stressing the Achilles tendon.


6. Nutrition also plays a role. Ensure you're getting adequate nutrients, particularly those that support collagen production and tendon health, such as vitamin C and sulfur.

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Hydration is important for overall health and can also aid in recovery.

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Compression wraps or braces can provide additional support to the tendon during the healing process.

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Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a more advanced treatment option that involves injecting platelets from your own blood into the tendon to stimulate healing.

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Surgery is a last resort and is typically considered only when other treatments have failed to provide relief.

It's important to remember that recovery from Achilles tendonitis can take time, and patience is key. Rushing back into activity too soon can lead to a prolonged recovery or re-injury. Always consult with a healthcare professional to ensure you're following the best course of treatment for your specific situation.

Rest your Achilles tendon. Avoid all activities that strain the tendon, such as stair climbing or running. ... Reduce pain by icing your Achilles tendon and taking nonprescription pain relievers such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as directed.