Achilles Tendonitis Treatment and Rehabilitation

What is one of the primary goals of physical therapy for Achilles tendonitis?

What is an indication for surgery in Achilles tendonitis?

What is a type of medication used to reduce inflammation and pain in Achilles tendonitis?

What is a type of exercise used in the early stage of rehabilitation for Achilles tendonitis?

What is a type of alternative therapy used to reduce pain and inflammation in Achilles tendonitis?

What is a post-operative rehabilitation protocol for Achilles tendonitis?

What is a common cause of plantar fasciitis?

What is a prevention method for plantar fasciitis?

Which of the following is a biomechanical issue that can contribute to plantar fasciitis?

What is a benefit of maintaining a healthy weight in relation to plantar fasciitis?

What can be used to provide additional support and cushioning for plantar fasciitis?

Why is it important to gradually increase activity levels for individuals with plantar fasciitis?

Achilles Tendonitis

Physical Therapy

Goals:
- Reduce pain and inflammation
- Improve ankle range of motion and strength
- Improve calf strength and flexibility
Techniques:
- Stretching and foam rolling to reduce adhesions and improve flexibility
- Strengthening exercises for calf and ankle muscles
- Balance and proprioception exercises to improve ankle stability
- Modalities such as heat, cold, and electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation

Surgery

Indications:
- Severe tendon ruptures or chronic tendonitis unresponsive to conservative treatment
- Large tendon tears or lesions
Surgical options:
- Debridement and repair of tendon lesions
- Tendon transfer or reconstruction
- Gastrocnemius recession to reduce tension on the Achilles tendon
Post-operative rehabilitation:
- Immobilization in a cast or boot for 6-8 weeks
- Gradual progression to weight-bearing and exercise

Pain Relief

Medications:
- NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen, naproxen) to reduce inflammation and pain
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
Alternative therapies:
- Acupuncture or dry needling to reduce pain and inflammation
- Shockwave therapy to stimulate healing and reduce pain
- Orthotics or shoe inserts to reduce stress on the Achilles tendon

Rehabilitation Exercises

Early stage exercises:
- Ankle mobility and strengthening exercises
- Calf strengthening exercises (e.g. calf raises)
- Toe raises and single-leg balance exercises
Progressive exercises:
- Agility and plyometric exercises to improve ankle function
- Resistance band exercises to strengthen calf and ankle muscles
- Balance and proprioception exercises to improve ankle stability and function

This quiz covers the treatment and rehabilitation of Achilles tendonitis, including physical therapy, surgery, pain relief, and rehabilitation exercises. It is designed for medical professionals and students.