Achilles Tendinopathy Success Story
The Problem
When this patient first came to Revive Physio, they had been struggling with persistent right Achilles tendon pain for over six months.
The pain had started suddenly whilst on holiday and became so severe that they struggled to walk, even needing to wear a heel wedge to reduce pressure on the tendon.
They had already sought treatment elsewhere, including podiatry, heel lifts, custom insoles, three sessions of radial shockwave therapy and NHS physiotherapy. Whilst some treatments provided temporary improvement, the pain and swelling continued to affect walking and everyday life.
What We Found
Following a comprehensive physiotherapy assessment, it became clear that the Achilles tendon wasn't the only area contributing to the problem.
Reduced knee extension following a previous total knee replacement, weakness through the quadriceps, reduced ankle mobility, sacroiliac joint dysfunction and significant tightness through the calf muscles were all placing additional strain on the Achilles tendon.
Rather than treating the tendon in isolation, we addressed the movement patterns and contributing factors that were preventing it from fully recovering.
The Treatment
A personalised treatment programme was developed, including:
Education about Achilles tendinopathy and tendon loading
Hands-on manual therapy to improve pelvic, hip and knee movement
Soft tissue massage, deep transverse friction massage and trigger point release to the calf muscles and Achilles tendon
Local dry needling to the gastrocnemius muscle and acupuncture around the Achilles tendon
Progressive strengthening exercises for the calf and quadriceps
Mobility exercises to improve knee extension and ankle flexibility
A personalised home exercise programme with regular progression throughout rehabilitation
The Outcome
As treatment progressed, pain and swelling gradually settled, walking became more comfortable and confidence steadily returned.
By the end of treatment, the patient was able to walk comfortably and pain free, returning to everyday activities without the Achilles pain that had affected them for months.
The patient was successfully discharged with the knowledge and exercises needed to maintain their progress and prevent future problems.
Take Home Message
Persistent Achilles tendon pain isn't always just about the tendon itself.
A thorough physiotherapy assessment looks at how the entire body is moving to identify the underlying factors that may be contributing to the problem. Sometimes addressing movement through the pelvis, knee, ankle and surrounding muscles can be the key to achieving lasting results.
At Revive Physio in Mosley Common, Worsley, we regularly help people with Achilles tendinopathy, heel pain, sports injuries and persistent tendon problems through expert assessment, hands-on physiotherapy and personalised rehabilitation.
If you've been struggling with Achilles pain that just isn't settling, we'd love to help you get back to walking comfortably and doing the things you enjoy.