Achilles tendonitis is an overuse injury characterized by pain in the lower calf or back of the heel. It occurs when the structures in your Achilles tendon are not prepared to handle the load applied through the area. This often happens with significant changes in activities such as increased running or walking distances.

Patients with Achilles tendonitis present with pain in the heel or lower calf that can make walking more difficult. This pain is often felt during the push-off phase of gait or with a stretch through the calf muscles.

At Vita, our approach to treating achilles tendonitis focuses on restoring mobility and reducing pain. Our physical therapists will work with you to design a specific treatment program to address your pain and to promote healing. Your treatment program may include: 

• Range of motion exercises focusing on ankle dorsiflexion and calf stretching.
• Pain reduction techniques such as dry needling and kinesio taping.
• Strengthening exercises for calf muscles.
• Assisted stretching exercises that target the foot and the achilles tendon.
• Gait training exercises in order to return to normal gait patterns.