Achilles Tendonitis Treatment and Prevention for Runners

Since the Achilles tendon is critical to helping lift you off the ground with each stride when running, Achilles tendonitis all too often is an injury seen among runners. Overtraining, or accelerating training too quickly, are primary causes of what is called Achilles tendonitis. Running on hills or hard pavement also bring about many Achilles tendon injuries.

All runners should be aware of Achilles tendonitis and should be aware of any pain or discomfort in this area when their training intensifies. To treat Achilles tendonitis your first step should be to reduce your mileage. If you continue to run on an injury like Achilles tendonitis you will only make it worse and delay your recovery. You should also try to identify any shifts in your training that may you contributed to your injury, like a substantial increase in the distance or intensity of your runs. If none of these two factors apply to you, maybe you’re recently started frequenting some new, hillier running routes. Identifying possible causes will help not only your treatment for Achilles tendonitis, but it will also help you avoid making the same mistakes in the future.

Treatment for Achilles Tendonitis

In addition to rest, ice therapy will also be an effective method of treatment for Achilles tendonitis. Ice packs or wraps will help reduce any inflammation. If your pain is severe you can try taking an anti-inflammatory drug and/or a pain reliever. You should consult your doctor first as to an appropriate dose and timeframe to use any sort of drug in the treatment of your Achilles tendonitis. Massage is another great way to help Achilles tendonitis, especially if you are able to get one from a physical therapists or licensed massage therapist. This will help ease the tension and pain you are feeling.

Prevention

As always, preventiion is the best medicine. In the future, always build up your training slowly and steadily as you intensify your exertions. When you run, make certain you do so on a variety of surfaces and elevation grades.. Do a hilly run one day, and run on the flats the next. Allow plenty of time to rest and recover from running. Rest is just as important as running in enhancing your training. Learn from experience and avoid that dreaded diagnoses of Achilles tendonitis. Happy trails.

TendonitisFacts.Com Home | Articles | Contact Us | Resources | Privacy