Achilles tendonitis, a common overuse injury, can cause significant pain and hinder mobility, especially for athletes and active individuals. Chiropractic therapy offers a natural, non-invasive approach to treating this condition, focusing on reducing pain, restoring flexibility, and promoting the healing of the Achilles tendon. So, how can a chiropractor help Achilles tendonitis and make you feel better about your well-being? Let's find out.
What Is Chiropractic Therapy?
Chiropractic therapy is a technique that focuses on diagnosing, treating and preventing musculoskeletal disorders using manual adjustment and manipulation of spine. The major focus of the therapy is on the structures of the body, especially spine. This holistic practice help the body heal itself without relying on surgery or drugs.
Chiropractic therapy is often the solution to treat lower back pain, neck pain and joint issues and sometimes be highly effective in the conditions like Achilles tendinitis.
What Is Achilles Tendinitis?
Achilles Tendinitis is an injury in which the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed due to the overuse or strain. Tendon is mostly overworked due to the activities like running, jumping or walking. It is common in runners and athletes who engage in rigorous activities. It can range from acute to chronic. If left untreated, it can give rise to severe conditions like rupture, for which surgical intervention may be required.
What are the causes of Achilles tendonitis?
There are multiple causes of Achilles tendonitis. Some of them are –
Micro Tears
Micro tears arise due to the heavy usage of tendons. And the tears that develop in the Achilles tendon are called tendinosis. Many a times they are not noticeable. However, with time, the pain can become excruciating and can lead to chronic condition.
Rupture
A rupture could be partial or complete. A partial rupture is one in which fibers remain intact, whereas all the fibers become disconnected in a complete tear. Rupture occurs as a result of excessive stress on the ankle and feet.
This becomes common when a person is new to any sport or returns to the same sport after a prolonged break. A sudden increase in the duration and intensity of exercise also leads to Achilles tendon injuries. Some symptoms of a rupture are a popping sound at the time of injury, swelling around the heel, pain in the back of the leg or heel, difficulty in walking or moving the foot, and stiffness in the legs.
Tendonitis
If the pain in your Achilles tendon is continuous for a few days, you may be experiencing the condition of tendonitis. You must get it treated to prevent any further development of chronic condition.
Does Chiropractic Care Help Achilles Tendonitis?
Can a chiropractor help Achilles tendonitis? Of course they can. In fact, chiropractic therapy can prove to be the most effective one in treating Achilles Tendonitis. Some studies highlighting the same are –
Effective in stopping the pain quickly
A study published in 2012 in the Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association proved that chiropractic care is effective in managing Achilles tendinopathy. It not only improves the quality of life but also helps you return to your daily activities and work quickly.
Improves the range of motion
Another study proved that instrument assisted soft therapy mobilization (IASTM) aids in improving the range of motion and decrease stiffness. This study in Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise Journal found that IASTM can increase the motion of ankle joint while reducing stiffness at the same time.
Additionally, toxins stored in the body’s muscles and joints those toxins released after chiropractic adjustments. These toxins can cause temporary symptoms such as mild fatigue or headaches, but they are a natural part of the body’s healing process, helping to flush out harmful substances and promote better overall health.
Role of Chiropractic in Treating Achilles Tendonitis
Now that the answer to can a chiropractor help Achilles Tendonitis is yes, let's find out the techniques used in chiropractic therapy to treat Achilles tendonitis.
Exercise Therapy
Exercise therapy is an essential part of chiropractic treatment for Achilles tendonitis. Chiropractors design personalized exercise plans that focus on stretching and strengthening the muscles surrounding the Achilles tendon. The main goals of exercise therapy are improving flexibility, strengthening muscles, and promoting mobility.
Active Release Techniques
Active Release Techniques (ART) are a soft tissue therapy used by chiropractors to treat conditions like Achilles tendonitis. ART focuses on breaking down scar tissue and adhesions that form as a result of overuse or injury to the Achilles tendon. These adhesions can limit mobility and cause chronic pain. During an ART session, the chiropractor uses their hands to apply pressure to the affected area while the patient moves the muscle or tendon through a range of motions.
Diversified Chiropractic Adjustments
Diversified chiropractic adjustments include the technique of spinal manipulation. Many practitioners prefer this arrangement where the chiropractors can prove their knowledge on the relationship between the spine and pain. Experts in chiropractor therapy apply quick thrust on your spine to relieve tension and stiffness, thereby reducing swelling and improving nerve function.
Suction Cupping
This technique includes the usage of multiple static cups or just one cup so that the sliding motion along the painful area can be created. The tolerance power of the patient determines the size of the cup, sliding location and the amount of suction. The expert applies cocoa butter to the affected area and then the pressure is applied for 10-15 seconds.
How can we prevent an Achilles tendon pain?
Some tips you can follow to prevent Achilles tendon are –
Warm up before the exercise and perform such exercises that can strengthen your tendons, calves, and feet.
Stay in good physical shape and remain active.
Increase the intensity of your exercise gradually and not suddenly.
Wear the right fit shoes and footwear. You can even cushion the pads in your shoes for more comfort.
Avoid exercising on uneven surfaces.
Conclusion
A chiropractor for the Achilles tendon can effectively treat your condition by opting for a variety of techniques and targeting both the symptoms and root causes of the condition. From personalized exercise therapy to advanced soft tissue techniques like Active Release and suction cupping, chiropractic care offers a comprehensive approach to managing Achilles tendonitis. Diversified chiropractic adjustments further enhance this treatment by restoring proper alignment and reducing stress on the tendon. Together, these techniques help patients recover faster, reduce pain, and prevent future injury, making chiropractic care a valuable solution for those suffering from Achilles tendonitis.
If you're looking for additional support in your recovery, RMT Movement can be a powerful complement to chiropractic care. Ready to take the next step towards your recovery? Book your appointment right now.
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