Understanding the Achilles
The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscles to your heel. It is the strongest tendon in the body, but because of its poor blood supply, it can be slow to heal once injured.
Common Symptoms
- Sharp pain in the heel during the first steps of the day.
- Swelling or a “nodule” on the back of the ankle.
- Pain when rising onto your tiptoes.
The Ashbourne Approach
We use a combination of gait analysis (looking at how you walk/run) and specific loading protocols. We focus on eccentric strengthening (lengthening the muscle under tension) to remodel the tendon fibres. We also provide advice on footwear and temporary heel lifts to take the immediate pressure off while you heal.
