Treatments for ankle tendonitis involving the Achilles, tibial or peroneal tendons, are applied in a systematic order to improve a person's chances of a complete and full recovery. This ensures a person will regain the normal strength and range of motion of his or her tendons. The length of each treatment depends on the severity of a person's tendonitis and the rate at which the tendons respond to treatment.
Types
Treatments for a person with ankle tendonitis include immobilizing and resting the affected ankle. Pain medication, ice, heat, electrical stimulation and ultrasound are also used. Therapeutic stretches and exercises are commonly incorporated later in the treatment process.
Time Frame
Immobilization, rest and an ice pack around the ankle are used immediately along with pain medication such as aspirin. These treatments are continued during the first week after the onset of tendonitis. Electrical stimulation may also be used during his first week of treatment. Superficial heat from a heat pack or deep heat from an ultrasound is incorporated once inflammation and swelling have subsided. A person may begin gentle stretches for his affected ankle beginning the third week of treatment with his doctor's approval. Strengthening exercises are done usually around the sixth week of treatment, according to Sandra Shultz, Ph.D., and colleagues, in their book "Examination of Musculoskeletal Injuries."
Features
Immobilization, rest, pain medication and cold treatments function to reduce a person's pain, swelling and inflammation in and around her ankle tendons. Electrical stimulation enhances the rate of protein build up, promoting faster healing of her tendon. Superficial and deep heat increase blood flow to the affected area. Progressive stretches and strengthening exercises improve the structure and function of her tendon as it heals.
Benefits
Immediate and proper treatment of ankle tendonitis can prevent the development of tendinosis, an irreversible condition in which his affected tendon gradually degenerates and loses its normal function. Treatment also reduces the effect of the inflammation on surrounding tissues, further compromising his ankle. Properly timed flexibility and strengthening exercises reduce the risk of his tendon being bound down to scar tissue, according to Peggy Houglum, Ph.D., in her book "Therapeutic Exercise for Musculoskeletal Injuries." The earlier his tendonitis is treated, the quicker he may return to his normal exercise program.
Prevention
A person can reduce her risk of ankle tendonitis by slowly increasing the intensity and duration of her exercise. MayoClinic.com also recommends she strengthen her calf muscles and stretch her ankles daily. Stretches are best done after every aerobic and lower body workout for three repetitions of 15 to 30 seconds per rep. If pain is experienced around the ankle during a workout, MayoClinic.com encourages her to stop the activity and rest. Properly fitted shoes also decrease her risk of tendonitis.
References
- "Examination of Musculoskeletal Injuries"; Sandra Shultz, Ph.D., Peggy Houglum, Ph.D., and David Perrin, Ph.D.; 2005
- "Therapeutic Exercise for Musculoskeletal Injuries"; Peggy Houglum, Ph.D.; 2005
- MayoClinic.com: Achilles Tendinitis
