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For many people, Achilles tendonitis can be debilitating, as it causes persistent pain and limits mobility. This common overuse injury affects the largest tendon in the body, the Achilles, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. While rest and conventional treatments can help, persistent cases often require advanced therapies to intervene.
One such option is Shockwave Therapy for Achilles tendonitis, an innovative, non-invasive treatment, well recognized for its effectiveness. At HelloPhysio, we combine cutting-edge techniques like Shockwave Therapy with personalized physiotherapy plans to deliver optimal recovery outcomes, bringing you the best of both worlds.
Understanding Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis typically develops from repetitive strain or overuse, particularly in athletes and individuals engaging in high-impact activities that involve running, jumping, or dancing. It can also occur due to improper footwear, poor biomechanics, or sudden increases in physical activity intensity.
Symptoms often include pain, swelling, stiffness and tenderness at the back of the heel, which can worsen after prolonged periods of inactivity or strenuous exercise.
Chronic Achilles tendonitis, known as Achilles tendinosis, involves a steady degeneration of the tendon’s fibers rather than acute inflammation. This condition can be challenging to treat, making advanced therapies like Shockwave Therapy for Achilles tendonitis a valuable option for many patients.
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. Originally developed for breaking down kidney stones, the technology has evolved to address musculoskeletal conditions, including Achilles tendonitis. The therapy involves delivering high-energy sound waves to the affected area, promoting tissue regeneration, reducing pain, and improving blood circulation.
When applied to Achilles tendonitis, Shockwave Therapy offers several benefits, including:
Pain Reduction: It interrupts pain signals and promotes the release of endorphins, providing immediate and lasting relief.
Tissue Regeneration: This therapy stimulates collagen production, a critical component of tendon repair.
Improved Blood Flow: It enhances circulation in the affected area, speeding up healing.
Breaking Down Scar Tissue: By helping to dissolve calcifications and adhesions in the area, Shockwave Therapy can eradicate obstacles that may hinder recovery.
How Shockwave Therapy for Achilles Tendonitis Works
During a session, a physiotherapist will evenly apply a gel to the affected area to ensure efficient transmission of the shockwaves. A handheld device then delivers targeted acoustic waves to the injured tendon. Most patients describe this as a sensation akin to deep vibrations or pressure. Each session lasts approximately 15 to 20 minutes, and most patients require 3 to 6 sessions, depending on the severity of their condition.
The effectiveness of Achilles Shockwave Therapy lies in its ability to address acute and chronic cases. For acute inflammation, it helps reduce swelling and pain, allowing patients to regain mobility more quickly. Chronic cases trigger the body’s healing mechanisms to repair long-term tendon damage.
Complementing Shockwave Therapy with Physiotherapy
While Shockwave Therapy is vital in relieving pain and accelerating healing, combining it with physiotherapy significantly enhances outcomes. At HelloPhysio, our approach integrates tailored exercise programs, manual therapy and biomechanical assessments alongside Shockwave Therapy treatments.
Rehabilitation and Strengthening
Physiotherapy focuses on restoring the Achilles tendon’s strength, flexibility and function. Exercises such as calf raises, eccentric loading and stretching are carefully prescribed to prevent re-injury and ensure optimal recovery. Your physiotherapist will also carefully ensure these exercises increase in intensity gradually for the best results.
Gait Analysis and Correction
Improper biomechanics can contribute to the development and recurrence of Achilles tendonitis. Our physiotherapists conduct detailed gait analyses to identify abnormalities, offering corrections through orthotics, footwear recommendations, or specific exercises.
Manual Therapy and Soft Tissue Techniques
Hands-on therapies, including massage and myofascial release, complement shockwave therapy by relieving surrounding muscle and tissue tension, further promoting recovery.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Achilles Tendonitis
Choosing Shockwave Therapy as part of your treatment plan provides numerous advantages:
- Non-Invasive Treatment: Avoids the risks and recovery time associated with surgery
- Quick Results: Noticeable pain reduction after just a few sessions for many patients
- Versatility: Effective for both acute and chronic cases of Achilles tendonitis
- Targeted Approach: Delivers treatment precisely to the affected area, ensuring maximum efficacy
- Evidence-Based Care: Backed by scientific research and proven success rates
What to Expect During and After Shockwave Therapy
It’s natural to wonder about the experience of undergoing Shockwave Therapy. Here’s what patients can expect:
During Treatment: Most sessions are comfortable, with mild discomfort in sensitive areas. Adjustments can be made to the intensity to suit individual tolerance levels.
Post-Treatment: Patients may feel mild soreness or redness in the treated area, similar to what is experienced after a deep tissue massage. These effects are temporary and typically subside within a day or two.
Recovery Timeline: While some patients notice immediate improvement, others experience gradual relief as the body continues to heal over several weeks.
The expert team at HelloPhysio ensures that patients are well-informed and supported throughout their recovery journey, offering personalized advice on post-treatment care and activity modifications.
Why Choose HelloPhysio for Shockwave Therapy in Singapore?
At HelloPhysio, we pride ourselves on delivering world-class care tailored to each patient’s needs. Our experienced physiotherapists utilize advanced technologies like Shockwave Therapy for Achilles tendonitis alongside evidence-based practices to ensure comprehensive recovery. Conveniently located at two sites in Singapore, our clinic offers a welcoming environment where patients receive expert attention and compassionate care.
Whether you’re an athlete aiming to return to peak performance or someone seeking relief from persistent pain, HelloPhysio is dedicated to helping you achieve your recovery goals. Explore the transformative benefits of Achilles Shockwave Therapy at HelloPhysio. Contact HelloPhysio today to schedule a consultation and discover how our integrated approach to physiotherapy can help you move forward pain-free.
