Achilles Tendinopathy
Muscle Power Deficits
Patients with varying degrees of achilles tendon pathology making presentation and potential treatment differ slightly; however, they will usually present with fairly localized pain in the achilles tendon and toward the heel!
For more clinical findings click here!
Anatomy
Image via Complete Anatomy by 3D4 Medical
Special Tests
The arc sign is and excellent assessment to help rule in presence of achilles tendon pathology due to it’s high specificity rating!
(Click image to watch 1-2 minute video)
Treatment
Insufficient dorsiflexion can be a contributing factor to achilles irritation. If this motion is limited, the achilles can experience increased loading eventually leading to tissue disruption. The gastrocnemius muscle can be a source of movement restriction and should be addressed! (Soft tissue mobilization can be executed in this position as well)
(Click image to watch 1-2 minute video)
Therapeutic Exercise
The gastrocnemius (also achilles tendon) is subject to the highest (eccentric) torque demand during gait, which is further increased while running! As other impairments are being addressed, you may want to consider improving eccentric loading capacity. (Click image to watch 1-2 minute video)