The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles, the gastrocnemius and soleus, to the heel bone. The calf muscles pull the heel up via the Achilles tendon to enable walking, running, jumping and other activities that involve raising the heel. Overuse or misuse of the calf muscle-Achilles tendon functional unit can cause acute inflammation known as Achilles tendonitis. The goals of treatments for Achilles tendonitis are resolution of inflammation, restoration of function and prevention of further or repeat injury.
Rest
Rest is an essential component of Achilles tendonitis treatment, facilitating the resolution of acute inflammation and healing of minute tears within the tendon. The type of rest varies, depending on the severity of the injury.
Mild cases of Achilles tendonitis often resolve with a temporary hiatus from the activity that led to the injury. High-impact activities such as running on hard surfaces and repetitive jumping commonly provoke Achilles tendon injuries. A temporary change to low-impact activities such as biking or swimming provides the relative rest needed to heal a mild Achilles tendon injury. More severe injuries may require a period of immobilization with a cast or removable splint to enable healing, notes the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons on the patient information website Foot Health Facts.
Ice, Compression and Elevation
Ice, compression with an elastic bandage and elevation of the injured foot help decrease swelling associated with Achilles tendonitis, notes MayoClinic.com. Compression with an elastic bandage also provides support to the injured tendon during the healing process. An ice pack applied to the injured tendon helps relieve pain in addition to alleviating swelling.
Medication
A short course of treatment with ibuprofen or aspirin may be used to provide pain relief and reduce inflammation with Achilles tendonitis, notes Dr. Thomas Joseph in a National Library of Medicine Medline Plus entry.
Orthotics
Orthotics are devices that optimize mechanical positioning and support, promoting healing or normal function of an area of the body. Heel lifts, arch supports and other types of orthotics help reduce tension on the Achilles tendon, reports the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.
Physical Therapy
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons points out that physical therapy is an important aspect of treatment for Achilles tendonitis, primarily to prevent recurrence or progression of the injury due to continued misuse or overuse. Calf-strengthening and stretching exercises reduce tension on the Achilles tendon. Physical therapists often provide instruction on training techniques specific to the sport or activity that led to the injury. This instruction can correct form errors that may have contributed to the injury.
