Achilles tendinopathy massage therapy TorontoAchilles Tendinopathy

Achilles tendinopathy (sometimes called Achilles tendonitis) is irritation of the Achilles tendon, which takes on a lot of stress in walking and running.

Not a diagnosis — for more information, contact me or another trusted healthcare provider.

Pain and stiffness at the back of the heel, along with difficulty with walking or explosive movements.

Untreated tendinopathy predisposes you to an Achilles rupture, which is much harder to manage — catching it early is key. I start with load management, cutting back the activities that are aggravating it so we're not straining or tearing the tendon further. From there, isometric loading and cueing of tendon tension in safe positions encourages remodelling without the risk that comes with powerful dynamic exercise. I add ankle mobility work and calf massage, and take a look at gait-related causes. Massage is a great tool here but not the be-all and end-all — I'll often refer to physiotherapists or podiatrists to cover it from more than one side. Recovery generally moves faster in your teens or twenties than it does in your forties or fifties.

What I Focus On

• Load Management
• Isometric Loading
• Ankle Mobility
• Gait Review