Running is a go to exercise for those of us trying to improve fitness, lose weight or live healthier. Irrespective of if you ate either starting running or increase running intensity, it is important to take steps to prevent common running injuries conditions.
Avoiding Running Related Injuries – A common condition developed by runners is known as Achilles tendinopathy. It accounts for up to 18% of all injuries in runners.
What is Achilles Tendinopathy and how does it occur?
It is an overuse injury of the Achilles tendon (attaching from your calf muscle to the heel bone) causing pain and stiffness. It is common to develop this condition after a recent increase in distance, intensity or length of running. When the calf muscle’s endurance and strength is inadequate for the demands of training, your calf muscle fatigues too quickly and more strain is then placed on the Achilles tendon while running.
How is it diagnosed?
Here at PROHEALTH PHYSIO, we conduct a detailed history of your condition and assess you using numerous physical tests in order to obtain a correct diagnosis. Things we look out for include:
- Pain that subsides with use but returns after an activity
- Morning stiffness
- Training errors
- Tenderness on strength and movement testing
How can PROHEALTH PHYSIO help?
Physiotherapy is the most effective method of treatment and prevention regarding Achilles tendinopathy. We take a holistic approach, not only to treat the injury, but to identify the potential causes whether it be from training load increases, errors in technique or structural abnormalities that need addressing.
Here at PROHEALTH PHYSIO we provide numerous treatments aimed at:
- Decreasing pain
- Strengthening the calf muscle to offload the Achilles tendon.
- Education and strategies for management and prevention.