Achilles problem

[James0509]

Hi,

Whilst playing fooball back in October i felt quite a bit of pain in my left achilles. I went to my doctors and the nurse felt that it was simply a strain and with 2/3 weeks (max) rest i would be fine and could return to action. However 5 weeks later i was stil unable to do any running without considerable pain. It ended up being 7 weeks before i played even half a game.
Regularly in matches i overstrain the achilles and feel some discomfort. This Sunday i strained it 3 times in one game and since Monday i havent been able walk wihout a limp or run, even when non active there is a large ache in the achilles and when i move there is pain.
Any advice would be very welcome as i'm a bit reluctant to go back to the doctors as they were little help previously.

thanks in anticipation

[Heidi]

Hi
Could be an achilles strain (minor tear) or could be tendinopathy. Either way you need the same initial treatment.
Rest, ice for 3 days.
Then if pain free start to stretch it gently, at least 3 times a day. Hold each stretch 30 seconds and repeat 2 or 3 times.

You should also look into getting some massage. The calf muscles and achilles can be quite stubborn when it comes to healing as they are used all the time. Sports massage whould really help to increase the flexibility, decrease stiffness, and improve condition of muscle as well as help achilles injury to heal. Sports massage is the way to go.

You can find more info on rehab etc here:

http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/cybertherapist/back/achilles/tendinitis.htm

[James0509]

ok thanks very much Heidi - i'm resting up and will visit the my sports clinic for a massage.