Continuing the activity can cause more damage to the tendon. Depending on the severity of the tendonitis, you may need to rest the tendon anywhere from days to months. I'd like to see that distinction made in your introduction. In some cases, your doctor or physical therapist may also advise some type of insert of orthotic. The Achilles tendon is used when walking, so this injury can make it difficult to perform everyday activities. She holds a doctorate in medicine, a master's in biomedicine, and a Bachelor of Science in biology from Boston College. There are several things that can increase your risk of developing Achilles tendonitis, which include: Achilles tendonitis is often caused by repetitive stress on the tendon, such as from overuse during sports or exercise. Achilles tendonitis is a condition that results when the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscle to the heel bone, becomes inflamed. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. The only other thing to take into consideration would be the mobility aspect. Make sure to keep your foot in the same position, which is not putting pressure on the Achilles, as you are applying these strips. Achilles tendinosis: treatment options. Go to your pharmacy to obtain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen. Do you have an Achilles tendon injury? It is important to make sure that the wrap is not too tight, however, as this can cause more pain. This can happen from overuse or repetitive stress on the Achilles tendon. This pad will help protect the area from friction when the Achilles moves under the athletic tape. For example, taking over-the-counter pain medication, like anti inflammatory medication, can help reduce pain. This will keep your wraps neat but will not put too much restriction on your circulation. Apply ice to the tendon. Ice: put an ice pack (or try a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel) on the tendon for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds, then relax and repeat on the other side, doing three stretches on each side. Keep a small amount of tension on the bandage as you go. 25 August 2020. http://www.orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00147. Obviously, if K-taped works well, use it. World J Orthop. If you have a little trouble visualizing that, check out this video on how to tape your injured Achilles with athletic tape here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fQZj1SZkOM&t=221s. As a small thank you, wed like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). Waltham, MA: UpToDate Inc. Provide compression (or pressure) by applying a gauze bandage, ACE bandage or Coban, or store-bought ankle support. Read the package and use as directed. He or she will also evaluate the flexibility, alignment, range of motion and reflexes of your foot and ankle. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Correlation of some predisposing intrinsic conditions with the morphological integrity of the Achilles tendon. The unused section of the tape will be directed towards the muscles on your calf. The doctor will also give you an idea of how long you should refrain from activity. Starting at the back of the calf, over the anchor strip, lay one piece of wide athletic tape down to extend to the anchor piece on the bottom of the foot. should see my orthopedic doctor to get the correct diagnosis between tendonitis vs. rupture. According to the Mayo Clinic, this can decrease any swelling over your Achilles tendon. Below are the steps you can take to tape and protect the Achilles tendon with athletic tape: If you have a little trouble visualizing that, check out this video on how to tape your injured Achilles with athletic tape here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fQZj1SZkOM&t=221s, You can watch this video to see how to do it here: youtube.com/watch?v=T5NUbNkB_oA&t=11s. 3 The growth may rub on the Achilles and cause pain and inflammation. Does wrapping your ankle Help Achilles tendonitis? Therapists often prescribe specific stretching and strengthening exercises to promote healing and strengthening of the Achilles tendon and its supporting structures. Start by wrapping the tape twice around the ball of your foot below the toes. You can apply an ice pack to your the painful tendon. Keep the ice on for 15-20 minutes at most. Helps sprained, Provides pain relief for Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles Tendonitis, swollen joints, and more. Icing is most effective in the first 48 hours after an injury, but its effects will diminish after that. Miguel Cunha, DPM. For instance, if you plan on watching TV, lay down in this position while you do it. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 149,128 times. Medina Pabn MA, Naqvi U. Achilles Tendonitis. Achilles tendonitis is a painful injury that can be debilitating. If your Achilles tendon has ruptured, you may need to see an orthopedic surgeon. The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. This can happen from a bone spur, infection, or overuse. Miguel Cunha, DPMBoard Certified Podiatrist Tennis Shoes vs Running Shoes: Differences, Benefits, and Best Uses, The 9 Best Double Jogging Strollers for Infants and Toddler Adventures, Best Wireless Earbuds with Ear Hooks Buying Guide, 10 Best Running Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis in 2022, Top 5 Best Running Shoes for Men with Bad Knees, 9 Best Running Shoes For Mortons Neuroma. As athletic tape is adhesive, you may wish to shave the area of your leg and foot that you will tape. Both are signs of a ruptured tendon rather than simply tendonitis. Make sure you tell your doctor about any recently increased physical activity involving your lower legs since this is likely the source of the injury. (2018). If you are experiencing Achilles tendonitis or any other type of physical discomfort, please consult with a doctor about how best to proceed in order to eliminate stress on the affected area. Ankle Brace Support Achilles Tendon Bandage Sport Protection Foot Wrap Guard | Sporting Goods, Fitness, Running & Yoga, Fitness Clothing & Accessories | eBay! Fakoya AOJ, Otohinoyi DA, Fakoya FA. Start above your ankle and wrap the bandage a few times to keep it in place. "This article answered every question I had in clear, concise, and easily-understood language. In addition, custom-molded insoles or orthotics can provide extra cushioning, support and stability. Tendon injuries of the foot and ankle. This will prevent pain when you remove the tape. Gulati V, Jaggard M, Al-nammari SS, et al. 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