Never had any problems while I was active. Only after sitting around being sedentary, deconditioned is when my Achilles and everything else started hurting. So I'm doing yoga, cardio and strength training.
I've learned so much from this channel. Of all the doctors I've visited, medical posts of people's experiences on reddit.. TH-cam, social media, etc. This channel and the information given on the achilles injuries is superior. Even though this injury sucks, I always feel better listening to you speak. You clearly all are very good at putting yourselves in the patients shoes because all of the things you discuss are certainly the things that go through my mind.. those things I worry about and questions I ask. Thank you so much for doing what you do. I hope I never need to get a consult with your company but its assuring knowing its an option if I can't do this on my own.
Hello Marika, This video is the best analysis of achilles tendon pain and stiffness. You have been able to explain in crystal clear details of what can and what happens to most ppl who are in a similar position. Thank you for sharing the information. I do a lot of walking and when I'm not walking I do skipping at home. I ruptured my tendon shortly after, but was fee the pain & stiffness long before. Thanks for the information.
I didn't start having this pain until I became older. True it dissipates within minutes. ❤ in any event I believe it's a condition with aging. 😮your commentary was right on point.
I work as a cna 12 hour shifts and everytime i get up from the computer I have to start slow cause my achilles feel so tight and my feet tingle :( I am 38 and in good shape but man my feet feel ALOT OLDER making hard to want to exercise any more :(
So happy I've found this channel! I'm a trail/ ultra runner and started having problems with my Achilles like 4 years ago when I went from road running to trail running. It got to a point where I couldn't run, but I never really stopped. However, running uphill was really painful. Did PT for a while and got a lot better, I can now run with no pain, but still very painful and stiff in the morning, and the back of the heel has been swollen ever since!
I'm also an ultra runner . 3 weeks ago I was doing a 22 mile trail run. I began chaffing around mile 11 and my running form switched to avoid irritation. Then around mile 19 , boom , I felt some pain coming from the sides of my heel and in back of the heel. I stopped running until the pain went away which took about 5 minutes . I continued running downhill with less pain. Note the day before I did intervals. I raced a 50k the following week with some pain around my ankle and still got 9th. 3 weeks later it still lingers around my ankle and I have physical therapy in 2 days. I'm also requesting an MRI because my friend who's also a doctor and a more experienced ultra runner told me to do so
Great advise , this has really helped with my recovery. The morning pain was something nobody had any answers to , until I found your channel. Keep up the great work , your knowledge is so helpful to many of us
I injured my achilles tendon over a year and a half ago. It is painful in the morning as well as throughout the day, and not one Dr or p/t told me about this information. Even at night it's sensitive when sleeping. Thank you, I really hope this channel helps me finally heal. Thank you!
It will not on its own. For the past 1 year i am suffering with this. Now i started taking homeopathi medicins and i am getting relief. Now 75% pain gone. If u r interested you can try.
I'm an ultra runner . 3 weeks ago I was doing a 22 mile trail run. I began chaffing around mile 11 and my running form switched to avoid irritation. Then around mile 19 , boom , I felt some pain coming from the sides of my heel and in back of the heel. I stopped running until the pain went away which took about 5 minutes . I continued running downhill with less pain. Note the day before I did intervals. I raced a 50k the following week with some pain around my ankle and still got 9th. 3 weeks later it still lingers around my ankle and I have physical therapy in 2 days. I'm also requesting an MRI because my friend who's also a doctor and a more experienced ultra runner told me to do so I already took xrays and nothing is broken, i did continue running easy miles with no long runs but during my runs i get pain in front of my ankle, on the interior just above my ankle and in the back of my heel. I feel like it transitions throughout my ankle. Hopefully nothing is ruptured and wont require surgery
Thanks a lot. I was experiencing Achilles tendon last two weeks and the "tear" worry was something creeping in the mind making me somewhat restless. Rather was really fearing the tear as that will stop my physical activities to good extent. Your explanation removes that fear . Thank you soooo much dear. Looks like destiny made me come across this video.
years ago, I had pain in the morning and my foot felt cupped, but I would work it out, and ignored it for months. Then I went to play volleyball and pow! it let loose and it had to be repaired. It healed, and works pain free now, though I didn't take the rehab, and never gained the ability to stand on my tip toe with that foot. Now I wore some shoes with a 3/4" heel and it triggered the other side. This time it is the mid part that hurts, and with Google MD, it looks like it will to be as serious as last time. I can't stop using it, so it should heal soon according to what I see here. Thanks
Thanks for this. It's really concerning how debilitating this problem is. I'm basically having difficulty even walking at this stage as I have the problem in both ankles. The MRI report states there is thickening of the tendon and I've been given a series of exercises to do but as soon as I walk at all, it flares almost immediately.
Similar problem here. Takes a few days of doing basically nothing to get rid of it, and walking is almost all I do. And not even anything wild. A not too fast 5 k (about an hour, with a few exercises in between) most mornings, and one longer walk (about 15k) once a week. But not walking is just not an option if I want to keep my weight under control.
Did you end up figuring out how to relieve it? Mine always seems to hurt regardless what I do. It is embarrassing to almost have to limp every single time I get up from sitting at work. I'm thinking of trying that KT tape
So glad I found this video I've been dealing with this for the past year. In fact I went and had an evaluation and xray done just the other day from a foot and ankle specialist.
Finally someone who knows their stuff. Thanks for these insights and tips. I have been experiencing achilles tendonitis since I've started running in barefoot shoes. I guess, I started out a little too aggressive (no transitioning time).
This makes more sense than anything else Ive heard on the topic and maps with my experience with the irritated tendon - But great to have it confirmed - Thanks for posting
This was SO helpful, thank you! Everything I've found until now only talks about how this occurs in one leg or the other but both of mine are equally painful/stiff in the morning or after a long time sitting and I thought it might be something more permanent or worse than tendonitis. I still don't know exactly what the cause is - this started a few months ago and I can't seem to figure out the problem, but this is going to help. Thank you!
You’re great. I appreciate this info. I’ve been a runner my whole life, but my mid 40s have been hard on my Achilles tendons. Thanks for setting my mind at ease!
Love your explanations, they seem very factual and can feel your experience. My Achilles has started to twinge after 7 or 8 weeks of increasing running intensity. Instead of stopping completely I will follow your approach same drop to maybe 30% and pause the high intensity sessions for a short while. Introduce kettlebell sessions, some calf raises and foam rolling.
Now I got my answers. After running yesterday and forgetting to do stretches it really hurts in the morning after waking up. I do walking/movements related to that part it will just go away
Two years ago, when I was 63, I managed to run up 81 steps ( and down again of course ) 50 times in 1 hour 7 minutes. I had 40 years of pain, siffness and fatigue and my prmises athletic sprinting career was ruined, before my disease was finally diagnosed in 2019 Now with a drug called Imraldi , Ive got my strength back and have been really going for it. Both my Achilles tendons have got a bit sore, so Im goung to follow your rehab program. Thank you for explaining things
I have painful problems following a run. After a light stretch I start with a 1/2k walk, a normal walk. Then I go into a slow jog for one km. This is to loosen everything up and get the heart rate up a bit. The second km I run a bit faster…working on my breathing and concentrating on my stride. The 3rd km I’m going at a fast pace and then I finish with 3/4 km doing interval running and some of it is flat out. Back to a walk, slow down the heart, deep breathing for about 10 minutes. This structure is to allow my tendons , feet, calf and legs to warm up and stretch. The outer part of my heel still gets painful to walk and tendons are tight. If I start my run too fast, which I can run faster, I can barely walk the next day because of my foot. But I tend to ignore the pain in order to prioritize for my heart strength and lungs. I’ve tried everything and don’t know what to do about it.
I've recently made a video detailing all the treatment options for Achilles tendinopathy (which sounds like what you have) - you may find it useful: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html
Thank you. Very informative and you made it easy for a layperson to understand. I had this condition very bad about a year ago. This is the best explanation that I’ve heard.
Fabulous video, thanks. I love how you explain things. Very insightful and professional. You have helped me before with an injury, now again. Keep it up!
Under the guidance of PT Aly (Alison) we have made dramatic progress healing my achillies tendon. It takes time and work. We plan to resume racing early next month.
This is super-helpful. I re-aggravated an old ankle injury by running on the beach (started 5K twice a week after previously only doing like half that once a week), and, what I think really did it, jumping onto and off of fallen trees. Yeah, I'm 40...also in the best shape of my life, and I refuse to accept that that's the sort of thing I can't do anymore. I just need to make my muscles and tendons strong enough to be able to do it. But now I realize that I've probably been too aggressive with my rehab. Like Knees Over Toes guy says, you shouldn't feel any pain. I was like, come on, shouldn't I do things that feel a little uncomfortable? Apparently maybe not, take a step back, do something even easier, keep doing it until I can do the harder thing with no discomfort, and work up from there. Maybe just jog slowly, avoid heavy impacts like jumping, only do it once a week... Bent knee calf raises seems to hit exactly the right spot; guess I should stick to doing it with both legs at the same time, which I can do without feeling any discomfort at all, instead of trying to work through the mild discomfort of doing it on the injured foot by itself.
You're spot one - only thing I can add is that if you mean that when you do a bent leg heel raise with one leg you really feel the same symptoms, another option can be to start with straight leg heel raises as it may allow you to load the tendon more but without the heavy stretch+compression effect of the bent knee ones.
I've had it for 6 months... but i have NOT been exercising ... is it from wearing flipflops and UGGs?!?! Maybe? obviously, Yes I use to love to walk, miles a day! But long term side effects from something (I'm not allowed to say) chronic dizzy spells- Everything goes black... that make it hard to stay in motion... and all the doctors in Tennessee say there are ZERO chances that I am having side-effects because I must be psychotic if I think that. Still, I've lost 25 lbs and counting (I weighed 125 lbs this morning, 56.6 kg, 8.92 stone) I officially have high cholesterol, and I am officially terrified. I start p.t. on thursday, but most places won't let you in without current *thing Im not allowed to talk about* or harass the crap out f me to do it... So THANK YOU FOR YOUR VDEOS
I have been diagnosed with Achilles tendinitis and was feeling a tad better after a few days. Put on a walking boot and tried mowing the lawn, feel I regressed almost back to square one and caused me concern for long term. Not sure how to progress from here.
It sounds like you just overdid it too quickly - you just need to follow a much more gentle approach to getting back to normal activities. We share treatment advice in this video: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html If you want help figuring it out and with getting back to your normal activities, this is something that our team of physios can help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.treatmyachilles.com
Thank you for the information. I'm actually in physical therapy because I tore the tendon next to it and they can't figure out what's wrong with my achilles now. I'm positive it's because I went from walking several miles a day and working on the ladder to complete immobilization for 8 weeks while they couldn't get me into an MRI.
This is exactly what I need to hear! Started playing volleyball again this month since I last played in 2009. I regularly exercise like doing HIIT, functional strength training and running. But sports is a different kind of animal after being away for that long. I’ll remind myself to take it slow, do a lot more strengthening sessions and rest more in between training days.
I've stated, noticing stiffness and little pain on only one foot, especially early mornings. It started after I had my baby about 4 months ago. I was taking BP meds (not anymore) so my MD says it's more than likely from fluid retention and weight gain🤔
It might be but if it is the tendon that feels stiff rather than the ankle as a whole, then it is more likely the tendon that is injured. If it is fluid retention the whole ankle area will feel stiff and it won't be limited to the tendon.
Very helpful. Usually walk an hour each day along the firm sand at the beach, wearing joggers with orthotics in them. Did a couple of walks without shoes & orthotics, & suddenly pain. That obviously was the issue.
I got into a accident June 2 and it gave me a fractured ankle. The ankle is healed, but I also got in another complication which is posterior tibial tendinitis. I was not aware that this could be posterior tibial tendinitis, so I was beginning to walk and go to the gym and also just go on kind of long walks. I started doing a research to see what could be the problem near my joint, and turns out I have been diagnosed with posterior tibial tendinitis after seeing a foot and ankle speacialist. since I was put into a cast, I lost my range of motion. I’m currently doing physical therapy, and there is this one exercise that I am supposed to do to increase my range of motion in my ankle, but I cannot perform the exercise because of my tendinitis I feel chronic pain when I try to increase my range of motion so until that chronic pain is gone, then that’s when I can get my range of motion back. My question is am I gonna get scar tissue built up since i did not know i had posterior tendonitis? im currently in a ankle brace.
Tibialis posterior tendonitis luckily does not produce scar tissue but it can get really irritated if you stretch the ankle too much which is what it sounds like is happening in your case. It is a bit tricky because I understand that you need to work on the stiff ankle somehow. Wearing supportive shoes with insoles are usually better than an ankle brace for tib post tendonitis. I discuss more treatment advice in this video: th-cam.com/video/qcc7G3aTmCg/w-d-xo.html
my MRI came back basically normal, but I can't stand or walk, nor just sit here in this chair with the weight of my leg pressing down on my heel. This video was helpful. Likely a bursitis issue imo...will follow your protocol
@@kyounao managing well, thx fox asking. Important to get blood-flow going, warm baths, walks, etc...just get the dang blood flowing. It's not great to be sitting in the chair...must get moving, ya feel me? Movement really important
*fantastic!* thank you. i recently got this stiffness myself. i think it could be the doing hills and for1.5+ hrs and suddenly different shoes. it's nice to know what the stiffness actually MEANS. i'll be more cognizant of the stuff you mentioned and monitor this in future as well.
Hmmm, 6 weeks is not usually enough time to build proper strength. We find out patients need to follow a very slow, progressive (starting with light exercises - but building as they tolerate) for at least 12 weeks and very often longer. Also, this is not the type of thing you really need to see a physio in person (research shows that hands-on treatment etc. doesn't really work) for on a weekly basis because the rehab is the main thing to help this recover and a person usually just needs a check-in every 2 or 3 weeks to make sure things are going as expected. If you wanted specific rehab advice and help with getting back to your normal activities pain free, this is something that our team of physios can help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.treatmyachilles.com/
Thank you for your insight. I’m a pretty young person (early 20s) but I haven’t been physically active in a few years. I started work at an Amazon warehouse and almost immediately both of my Achilles tendons became super stiff in the morning. I’m lifting heavy boxes/bags and pulling them on around wheeled carts that can weight like 300-500lbs (sometimes up ramps). I think the physical workload has been a shock to my body as it is trying to keep up. It’s good to know my Achilles stiffness isn’t super serious, but it does make me want to start looking for less physical work before it becomes a larger problem.
7 mos of pain and stiffness. Nurse who walks a lot at work. I wear Hokas shoe wear. I recently had knee surgery and although resting I have seen no improvement in pain and stiffness. What do you recommend?
Hokas are great but you may find if you add a small heel lift insert that it helps reduce the pain when you walk because Hokas tend to have only a low heel-toe angle. We discuss what shoes can help your recovery in this video: th-cam.com/video/fDL9rEFuGJk/w-d-xo.html But the shoes will obviously just help reduce the strain on the tendon - you still need to take steps to help it recover. We've discussed the best evidence-based treatments in this video: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html If you want help with your rehab, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.treatmyachilles.com
A heel spur is a tiny piece of bone that grows on the heel bone. Tendonitis affects the tendon. YOu can have a heel spur without any problem in the tendon, you can also have tendonitis without any heel spurs, and then you can have both of them together. They don't really know yet if heel spurs cause tendonitis because patients who have them will often be able to recover from tendonitis but the spur remains. But when someone's tendonitis doesn't want to recover, they may go in and remove the spur to see if it helps.
@@TreatMyAchilles thanks doc. I have both on both feet. Growing up really poor and wearing really cheap shoes without any support damage my feet. Played sports from pee wee to high school ( football) . Never understood why my tendons were so sore hours after I played. Just would ice and take Motrin. Been 35 years and I have been dealing with this. 53 now, and I haven’t played a game of basketball ( full court) in 15-20 years. Hurts too run or sprint. I can jog for about 5-10 minutes then I have to stop and walk. Sounds like I need surgery. Something I really been avoiding for a very long time
The tightness in my achilles when i wake up varies. It feels tighter and more sore when i sleep on a soft bed. It feels much better on a firmer bed. Im usually a side sleeper. Is there any scientific explanation for this?
Not as far as I know. I'm assuming that the beds are in different locations (one at home and one in a hotel for instance) - could it be that it is actually not the bed but rather the activities you do during the day that affects it? E.g. you walk more or wear other shoes on day that you sleep at the place with the soft bed?
Thanks so much for this! Very helpful. One question: is it possible through the right treatment and rehabilitation to return the muscle tissue to the proper parallel fiber state, and reduce the amount of fluid between those collagen fibers? Is that just part of the natural healing process, or are there other steps that must be taken?
Yes, your tendon can get strong and healthy - the most important treatment is mix of rest + exercise - if you get that right then it allows it to recover and grow strong again. Other treatments can sometimes be useful but for most cases this is enough. I've discussed all the treatment options in detail in this video: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html
Okay this makes sense! I moved to a very hilly area. So while my walking distance isn’t new, the steep elevation is, plus I broke in my new sneakers during this walk so that may have contributed to it as well.
Sound like that could have done it. If it started only recently, it should recover really well if you just reduce the strain on your tendons for a while by avoiding flat shoes and wearing shoes with heels on them (like normal running shoes) and just easing off activities that really work it. You can find more treatment advice in this video but don't jump into rehab just yet - new cases really just needs a bit of rest: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html
EXACTLY! I noticed this 1st thing out of bed in am about a month ago. I 1st 🤔-I must be sore from something I did 🤷🏻♀️Then it was same each am consistently. My search was verbatim, word for word, your intro. Yes, please to help. What the… ?
Hi there, You're welcome to book a video consultation with one of our physios if you would like an assessment and a personalised treatment plan: www.treatmyachilles.com/
I have terrible issues going on for over twenty five years. Had grafton and dry needling when it got REALLY bad 7 years ag. But every summer, here in Australia i suffer constantly. And it gets worse with weight gain.
If it only hurts in the summer it may be due to the type of shoes your wear. Typically flip-flops (thongs) and other flat shoes will make it easier to irritate - if you can find a shoe with a slight heel on it, it will help. I know one doesn't want to wear running shoes in the summer but even a supportive sandal with a heel on it will likely help. Here's more info on that: th-cam.com/video/q3-lCfc3RJQ/w-d-xo.html But also if you want to know more about treatments supported by the research: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html
@@TreatMyAchilles thanks so much, already attempting to change habits and footwear. I tend to wear barefoot and low rise boots and runners during winter with alot less irritation . My summer footcwear is barefeet or crocs swift waters that have a low rise and minor arch support... Doing the exercises on video from now on. Was doing completely wrong stretch from chiro which was causing the issue to continue. Seems to be a combination of factors.
IVE NOTICED THAT MY HEELS MIGHT NOT HURT WHEN I FIRST PUT MY SHOES ON, BUT ONCE I DRIVE AND GET BACK ON MY FEET, THE STIFFNESS/PAIN RETURNS. ON/OFF ALL DURING THE DAY.
Mine gets aggravated every time I walk a short distance. It's been going on for years. I'm starting to feel there is a cause somewhere else. I've changed my shoes using multiple types, did stretches, yoga, weight training, nothing works. As soon as I start walking it all comes back.
If you wanted help figuring this out and with getting back to your normal activities, this is something that our team of physios can help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.treatmyachilles.com/
I suspect my age is not helping & also the seasonal change (here in northern New England, US) typically proves problematical for me. As I've gotten older, I find I am not able to walk as far as I normally would, additionally as winter approaches w/ the colder temperatures in place I experience more early morning stiffness & pain in the area. It really is a delicate balance between walking enough to get the benefit & walking too much & causing additional irritation to the area. Thanks for helping me to undestand the problem a little better!
It's also from our high acidic diet meat dairy grains ..not enough fruit n veg ..acidosis builds up in legs n feet ..try cutting out all processed foods n drinks
Hiya Maryke, thanks for the video. I’ve consulted with a PT and know exactly what to do for my heels, and I have a plan. I’ve had insertional for 2 months, and my plan began yesterday. Based on your experience, if I’m starting at 4 sets of 45 second isometric holds a day, how long until you think I can gain plyometric ability?
I have no idea - it all depends on how your tendon reacts to the exercises, how much your strength deficit is etc. Ask the physio who gave you the exercises - they should be able to make a more educated guess.
My pain seemed to start when I bought some new trainers and they were a bit high up the ankle. This was over two years ago. I started a part time job a year and a half a go and I walk about 11,000 steps in four hours four days a week. I am 62 years old and overweight and do no other exercise. Iam active in my job but now both achilles hurt. I wake up in the morning with sore ankles and can hardly walk for a short while until I get going. I sometimes gets waves of pain, like burning heat in them. I also struggle with aching feet in general as my circulation is poor and have swollen ankles and wear compression socks. I can't afford any treatment and the physio at the doctors only gave me stretching exercises to do. Not sure what I can do as sometimes the ache is so horrible
Hi @binniesbags I have just made a video (still needs editing) about gentle exercises that can help for very painful tendons, but it also sounds as if you need to review your shoes if your feet hurt in general. Some other videos to watch: How to manage a painful tendon: th-cam.com/video/mLpBpFV1mww/w-d-xo.html How heel lift inserts can sometimes help: th-cam.com/video/crzrN0KseWg/w-d-xo.html
I injured my heel/tendon playing golf on a steep upward slope. Its been painful for around three months now despite having two or three rest periods (not playing). I have the morning soreness which doesn’t get much better throughout the day. I wondered if you think a TENS machine could be used to help, I have one for a wrist strain and it helps but Im not sure it’s appropriate for this? Many thanks for taking the time to make these vids. 😊
TENS only helps with temporary pain relief - it doesn't do anything for healing but also don't carry any risks. So, you can use it if you find it helps to make things more comfortable. I've discussed the best evidence-based treatments in this video: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html
Mine is the opposite at 1st. I'd have long skate days. Sore by night & woke up better but again came bk after flat shoe skates. Im used ro barefoot on hardwood & tile but walking shoes for work & flat for skate
Sounds like you likely then just overdid a bit with too much skating in flat shoes - if you are able to switch to wearing shoes with more of a heel on them (like running shoes) or add heel lifts into your shoes, it can help your tendons to calm down and recover - this video explains it: th-cam.com/video/crzrN0KseWg/w-d-xo.html
I can’t do anything but make it out to take the trash out or go to the grocery store once a week and then I suffer. In between that, I keep moving around as much as I can, but I can’t find the right shoes. My podiatrist has given up on me. I cannot wear arch supports which causes pain in my arches because I have high arches and I have shortened Achilles tendons and sometimes plantar fasciitis. And if I wear shoes that have too much of a lift in the back, I get pain under my forefoot. I’m a mess. I just want a bit of my life back. I don’t walk normally. I have to try to hide it. And it’s horrible. I have to get my calf muscle stretched out and over a year ago a physical therapist canceled my third appointment because she didn’t want to have to do anything. I think I need trigger point release and Soft tissue work to get the calves to relax. Back in the day, I had plantar fasciitis and we bought an outdoor spa and the very strong jet helped the calf muscles which helped everything else. So I did not have the Achilles issue back then. But the short tendons seem to be what’s causing at all of these problems. And when a podiatrist gives up on you or any doctor or any practitioner gives up on you, you feel like you have no hope. I was on my own years ago and now I’m on my own again, but I don’t have the tools that I need. I don’t have that outdoor spot anymore because my husband Left me because of the injury back then. I have access to a pool, but I don’t know how I’m supposed to do any of those exercises because if I can’t bend my ankle that way anyway how am I supposed to do it in a pool? All I have are two pairs of shoes right now and neither one are working that great and a pair of hiking boots that don’t work very well either. Because I don’t have the right Inserts or maybe that’s not even it. Maybe it’s just the fact that everything is tight and shortened up and I do everything I can before I leave to relax something in there and still I suffer after. And everyone’s right here that when you get up for the first time after sitting, it is horrendous. First thing in the morning is not bad strangely. But then when I start thinking about things and moving around my feet get cold from stress. I’m afraid I’ll never get to go anywhere or do anything again and I’m going on three years here and I can’t take it anymore. I can’t keep sitting here and not getting any exercise. Now I’ve got a bit of plantar fasciitis because I was using my grocery cart to get my trash to the dumpster and I have to walk sideways up a ramp in the basement to get to the elevator and then out the front door of this complex. It is absolutely ridiculous. I feel as if I can call myself crippled at this point. How much does it cost to consult with you?
It is the same - it just means that you have insertional Achilles tendonitis (where the tendon attaches to the heel bone). You can find more info about treatment here: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html
I have hamstring tendinopathy and experience morning stiffness but I hardly hear about it with the hamstring. Do many PHT patients in your experience have morning stiffness and does it eventually go away?
The majority of tendon injuries have morning stiffness, including PHT. It always goes away as the injury recovers. If it suddenly returns (and sticks around for a few days, not just 1), it is telling you to adjust your training load because the tendon isn't 100% happy.
This is exactly what I'm going through. Since the (intense) pain occurs when I first wake up in the morning I'm wondering if there are sleeping positions that are detrimental, or beneficial, to achilles tendonopothy.
Hi Beth - not really. The pain you feel is usually a bit exaggerated because everything has become a bit stiff from lying still for so long. Something that can help is if you gently point your foot up and down 10 to 20 times before getting out of bed - not forcing it too move but just getting the circulation going. As your rehab and exercises start to strengthen your tendon and it recovers, this morning pain will subside. Alison has just made a brilliant video where she talks about all of this in more detail - it is due to come out next week and it is called: Why not to use night splints, so perhaps keep an eye out for it.
I have been experimenting, when I sleep on my sides my feet get pointed and turned in. I barely slept last night but stayed vigilant about keeping my ankle in a 90 angle. My achilles was way better in the morning. I may invest in the products that splint then for sleeping. Could very well be anecdotal and just my personal issue / reaction.
With this channel, I don‘t need to see a Dr. You are so right on my case. I have made much progress, and my tendon is becoming stronger.
Never had any problems while I was active. Only after sitting around being sedentary, deconditioned is when my Achilles and everything else started hurting. So I'm doing yoga, cardio and strength training.
That title tag was so extremely specific and relevant that I've gotta stay and watch the video lol.
😂
She is very honest and genuine while giving good information
I've learned so much from this channel. Of all the doctors I've visited, medical posts of people's experiences on reddit.. TH-cam, social media, etc. This channel and the information given on the achilles injuries is superior. Even though this injury sucks, I always feel better listening to you speak. You clearly all are very good at putting yourselves in the patients shoes because all of the things you discuss are certainly the things that go through my mind.. those things I worry about and questions I ask. Thank you so much for doing what you do. I hope I never need to get a consult with your company but its assuring knowing its an option if I can't do this on my own.
Well said. She's amazing. So well explained. Thanks again
Hello Marika, This video is the best analysis of achilles tendon pain and stiffness. You have been able to explain in crystal clear details of what can and what happens to most ppl who are in a similar position. Thank you for sharing the information.
I do a lot of walking and when I'm not walking I do skipping at home.
I ruptured my tendon shortly after, but was fee the pain & stiffness long before.
Thanks for the information.
Glad it was helpful!
I didn't start having this pain until I became older. True it dissipates within minutes. ❤ in any event I believe it's a condition with aging. 😮your commentary was right on point.
Thanks for sharing!!
Just what I have been experiencing recently. I am so glad I came across your video.
I'm so glad!
☝️ THAT'S the problem - its when I get up from resting (sitting or lying) that It's the worst.
I need to make an updated video for how to treat this but in the meantime this one can provide some ideas: th-cam.com/video/0Hb3FS_xG-A/w-d-xo.html
This is what am going through right now. Agony!
Me too! It’s been almost a year of living like this. Stiff upon waking, incorporating from any kind of rest. Started with a lot of pain on the heel
I work as a cna 12 hour shifts and everytime i get up from the computer I have to start slow cause my achilles feel so tight and my feet tingle :( I am 38 and in good shape but man my feet feel ALOT OLDER making hard to want to exercise any more :(
Yes its horrible pain when I wake up in the morning or get up after sitting!!
So happy I've found this channel! I'm a trail/ ultra runner and started having problems with my Achilles like 4 years ago when I went from road running to trail running. It got to a point where I couldn't run, but I never really stopped. However, running uphill was really painful. Did PT for a while and got a lot better, I can now run with no pain, but still very painful and stiff in the morning, and the back of the heel has been swollen ever since!
I'm glad you find the videos useful! This video may also give you some ideas: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html
I'm also an ultra runner . 3 weeks ago I was doing a 22 mile trail run. I began chaffing around mile 11 and my running form switched to avoid irritation. Then around mile 19 , boom , I felt some pain coming from the sides of my heel and in back of the heel. I stopped running until the pain went away which took about 5 minutes . I continued running downhill with less pain. Note the day before I did intervals.
I raced a 50k the following week with some pain around my ankle and still got 9th.
3 weeks later it still lingers around my ankle and I have physical therapy in 2 days. I'm also requesting an MRI because my friend who's also a doctor and a more experienced ultra runner told me to do so
This makes more sense than everything else I could find
Me too! It confirmed what I suspected in some ways but didn't understand what was wrong.
Great advise , this has really helped with my recovery. The morning pain was something nobody had any answers to , until I found your channel. Keep up the great work , your knowledge is so helpful to many of us
Glad it helped!
I injured my achilles tendon over a year and a half ago. It is painful in the morning as well as throughout the day, and not one Dr or p/t told me about this information. Even at night it's sensitive when sleeping. Thank you, I really hope this channel helps me finally heal. Thank you!
You're welcome!
It will not on its own. For the past 1 year i am suffering with this. Now i started taking homeopathi medicins and i am getting relief. Now 75% pain gone. If u r interested you can try.
All my worries are gone! THANK YHOU!
This is a very well done video. It describes exactly what I am going through and how to recover. Thanks.
You're very welcome
I'm an ultra runner . 3 weeks ago I was doing a 22 mile trail run. I began chaffing around mile 11 and my running form switched to avoid irritation. Then around mile 19 , boom , I felt some pain coming from the sides of my heel and in back of the heel. I stopped running until the pain went away which took about 5 minutes . I continued running downhill with less pain. Note the day before I did intervals.
I raced a 50k the following week with some pain around my ankle and still got 9th.
3 weeks later it still lingers around my ankle and I have physical therapy in 2 days. I'm also requesting an MRI because my friend who's also a doctor and a more experienced ultra runner told me to do so
I already took xrays and nothing is broken, i did continue running easy miles with no long runs but during my runs i get pain in front of my ankle, on the interior just above my ankle and in the back of my heel. I feel like it transitions throughout my ankle. Hopefully nothing is ruptured and wont require surgery
Thanks a lot. I was experiencing Achilles tendon last two weeks and the "tear" worry was something creeping in the mind making me somewhat restless. Rather was really fearing the tear as that will stop my physical activities to good extent. Your explanation removes that fear . Thank you soooo much dear. Looks like destiny made me come across this video.
Glad it helped!
She is so right😊...wrong shoes and walking on rough terrain. Great video...Thank you...
You're welcome!
Thank you for so detailed explanation, it really helps knowing the problem is not so tough as our mind thinks it is.
You're very welcome!
Wonderful video, thanks a lot for this! Rehab my tendons, one step at a time! Merci
I really like this channel! Her advice really helped my right Achilles feel 10 times better
Great to hear!
Awesome video. That was exactly what I was looking for. Thank you!!!!
You're welcome!
Achilles himself could not have explained this better. This was super helpful. Thank you 🫶
Glad it was helpful!
years ago, I had pain in the morning and my foot felt cupped, but I would work it out, and ignored it for months. Then I went to play volleyball and pow! it let loose and it had to be repaired. It healed, and works pain free now, though I didn't take the rehab, and never gained the ability to stand on my tip toe with that foot. Now I wore some shoes with a 3/4" heel and it triggered the other side. This time it is the mid part that hurts, and with Google MD, it looks like it will to be as serious as last time. I can't stop using it, so it should heal soon according to what I see here. Thanks
Thanks for watching, and good luck with your recovery!
Thanks for this. It's really concerning how debilitating this problem is. I'm basically having difficulty even walking at this stage as I have the problem in both ankles. The MRI report states there is thickening of the tendon and I've been given a series of exercises to do but as soon as I walk at all, it flares almost immediately.
You may want to check what shoes your wear and if using a heel lift insole can help th-cam.com/video/crzrN0KseWg/w-d-xo.html
@@TreatMyAchilles thank you!
Same here.
Similar problem here. Takes a few days of doing basically nothing to get rid of it, and walking is almost all I do. And not even anything wild. A not too fast 5 k (about an hour, with a few exercises in between) most mornings, and one longer walk (about 15k) once a week. But not walking is just not an option if I want to keep my weight under control.
Did you end up figuring out how to relieve it? Mine always seems to hurt regardless what I do. It is embarrassing to almost have to limp every single time I get up from sitting at work. I'm thinking of trying that KT tape
Thank you. So encouraging and informative.
So glad!
So glad I found this video I've been dealing with this for the past year. In fact I went and had an evaluation and xray done just the other day from a foot and ankle specialist.
Did you get better?
This is what I needed to hear. Thank you so much
You are welcome
These videos are great! Thanks.
You are welcome!
Great video, very good delivery and information.
Much appreciated!
Finally someone who knows their stuff. Thanks for these insights and tips. I have been experiencing achilles tendonitis since I've started running in barefoot shoes. I guess, I started out a little too aggressive (no transitioning time).
Thanks Maryka for your perfect explanation. And you gave me some hope about my injured and painful Achilles
Dankie Maryke, dit is nou presies die video waarna ek opsoek was!
Groete
Goed om te hoor! Dalk sal jy hierdie video ook nuttig vind: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html
Really helpful. You explained what is actually happening with clarity and just the right level of information. Thanks
Glad it was helpful!
This makes more sense than anything else Ive heard on the topic and maps with my experience with the irritated tendon - But great to have it confirmed - Thanks for posting
You're welcome!
This was SO helpful, thank you! Everything I've found until now only talks about how this occurs in one leg or the other but both of mine are equally painful/stiff in the morning or after a long time sitting and I thought it might be something more permanent or worse than tendonitis. I still don't know exactly what the cause is - this started a few months ago and I can't seem to figure out the problem, but this is going to help. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
You’re great. I appreciate this info. I’ve been a runner my whole life, but my mid 40s have been hard on my Achilles tendons. Thanks for setting my mind at ease!
Glad it was helpful!
Love your explanations, they seem very factual and can feel your experience. My Achilles has started to twinge after 7 or 8 weeks of increasing running intensity. Instead of stopping completely I will follow your approach same drop to maybe 30% and pause the high intensity sessions for a short while. Introduce kettlebell sessions, some calf raises and foam rolling.
Thanks for sharing!
This was such a helpful video and cleared up so many doubts I had , got a new subscriber! Many thanks
Awesome, thank you!
Now I got my answers. After running yesterday and forgetting to do stretches it really hurts in the morning after waking up. I do walking/movements related to that part it will just go away
You can find more advice about treatment here: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html
Two years ago, when I was 63, I managed to run up 81 steps ( and down again of course ) 50 times in 1 hour 7 minutes.
I had 40 years of pain, siffness and fatigue and my prmises athletic sprinting career was ruined, before my disease was finally diagnosed in 2019
Now with a drug called Imraldi , Ive got my strength back and have been really going for it.
Both my Achilles tendons have got a bit sore, so Im goung to follow your rehab program.
Thank you for explaining things
i went from having no dog to having a dog ... that's the reason 😂
😂
Omg same here 😂😂😂
I have painful problems following a run. After a light stretch I start with a 1/2k walk, a normal walk. Then I go into a slow jog for one km. This is to loosen everything up and get the heart rate up a bit. The second km I run a bit faster…working on my breathing and concentrating on my stride. The 3rd km I’m going at a fast pace and then I finish with 3/4 km doing interval running and some of it is flat out. Back to a walk, slow down the heart, deep breathing for about 10 minutes. This structure is to allow my tendons , feet, calf and legs to warm up and stretch. The outer part of my heel still gets painful to walk and tendons are tight. If I start my run too fast, which I can run faster, I can barely walk the next day because of my foot. But I tend to ignore the pain in order to prioritize for my heart strength and lungs. I’ve tried everything and don’t know what to do about it.
I've recently made a video detailing all the treatment options for Achilles tendinopathy (which sounds like what you have) - you may find it useful: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html
Thank you. Very informative and you made it easy for a layperson to understand. I had this condition very bad about a year ago. This is the best explanation that I’ve heard.
You are welcome!
What a useful video! Thank you so much
You're very welcome!
Fabulous video, thanks. I love how you explain things. Very insightful and professional. You have helped me before with an injury, now again. Keep it up!
Under the guidance of PT Aly (Alison) we have made dramatic progress healing my achillies tendon. It takes time and work. We plan to resume racing early next month.
Thank you ..your analysis fits my case
You're welcome!
This is super-helpful. I re-aggravated an old ankle injury by running on the beach (started 5K twice a week after previously only doing like half that once a week), and, what I think really did it, jumping onto and off of fallen trees. Yeah, I'm 40...also in the best shape of my life, and I refuse to accept that that's the sort of thing I can't do anymore. I just need to make my muscles and tendons strong enough to be able to do it. But now I realize that I've probably been too aggressive with my rehab. Like Knees Over Toes guy says, you shouldn't feel any pain. I was like, come on, shouldn't I do things that feel a little uncomfortable? Apparently maybe not, take a step back, do something even easier, keep doing it until I can do the harder thing with no discomfort, and work up from there. Maybe just jog slowly, avoid heavy impacts like jumping, only do it once a week... Bent knee calf raises seems to hit exactly the right spot; guess I should stick to doing it with both legs at the same time, which I can do without feeling any discomfort at all, instead of trying to work through the mild discomfort of doing it on the injured foot by itself.
You're spot one - only thing I can add is that if you mean that when you do a bent leg heel raise with one leg you really feel the same symptoms, another option can be to start with straight leg heel raises as it may allow you to load the tendon more but without the heavy stretch+compression effect of the bent knee ones.
I've had it for 6 months... but i have NOT been exercising ... is it from wearing flipflops and UGGs?!?! Maybe? obviously, Yes I use to love to walk, miles a day! But long term side effects from something (I'm not allowed to say) chronic dizzy spells- Everything goes black... that make it hard to stay in motion... and all the doctors in Tennessee say there are ZERO chances that I am having side-effects because I must be psychotic if I think that. Still, I've lost 25 lbs and counting (I weighed 125 lbs this morning, 56.6 kg, 8.92 stone) I officially have high cholesterol, and I am officially terrified. I start p.t. on thursday, but most places won't let you in without current *thing Im not allowed to talk about* or harass the crap out f me to do it... So THANK YOU FOR YOUR VDEOS
I have been diagnosed with Achilles tendinitis and was feeling a tad better after a few days. Put on a walking boot and tried mowing the lawn, feel I regressed almost back to square one and caused me concern for long term. Not sure how to progress from here.
It sounds like you just overdid it too quickly - you just need to follow a much more gentle approach to getting back to normal activities. We share treatment advice in this video: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html If you want help figuring it out and with getting back to your normal activities, this is something that our team of physios can help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.treatmyachilles.com
What a great video and clear explanation, very much appreciated - Thanks Jim
Very welcome
Thank you for the information. I'm actually in physical therapy because I tore the tendon next to it and they can't figure out what's wrong with my achilles now. I'm positive it's because I went from walking several miles a day and working on the ladder to complete immobilization for 8 weeks while they couldn't get me into an MRI.
Thank you very much for this informational video it help me a lot to gain confidence to play again thanks
Glad it helped!
This is exactly what I need to hear! Started playing volleyball again this month since I last played in 2009. I regularly exercise like doing HIIT, functional strength training and running. But sports is a different kind of animal after being away for that long. I’ll remind myself to take it slow, do a lot more strengthening sessions and rest more in between training days.
I've stated, noticing stiffness and little pain on only one foot, especially early mornings. It started after I had my baby about 4 months ago. I was taking BP meds (not anymore) so my MD says it's more than likely from fluid retention and weight gain🤔
It might be but if it is the tendon that feels stiff rather than the ankle as a whole, then it is more likely the tendon that is injured. If it is fluid retention the whole ankle area will feel stiff and it won't be limited to the tendon.
Very helpful. Usually walk an hour each day along the firm sand at the beach, wearing joggers with orthotics in them.
Did a couple of walks without shoes & orthotics, & suddenly pain. That obviously was the issue.
Thanks for sharing!
that's what i want to know!!
Thanks for your video.
You're welcome!
Thank you very much I like the way you express yourself.
You are so welcome
Wow, LOVE this type of informative video, especially since it's devoid of all the fluff and razzmatazz we so often see.
So glad!
I got into a accident June 2 and it gave me a fractured ankle. The ankle is healed, but I also got in another complication which is posterior tibial tendinitis. I was not aware that this could be posterior tibial tendinitis, so I was beginning to walk and go to the gym and also just go on kind of long walks. I started doing a research to see what could be the problem near my joint, and turns out I have been diagnosed with posterior tibial tendinitis after seeing a foot and ankle speacialist. since I was put into a cast, I lost my range of motion. I’m currently doing physical therapy, and there is this one exercise that I am supposed to do to increase my range of motion in my ankle, but I cannot perform the exercise because of my tendinitis I feel chronic pain when I try to increase my range of motion so until that chronic pain is gone, then that’s when I can get my range of motion back. My question is am I gonna get scar tissue built up since i did not know i had posterior tendonitis? im currently in a ankle brace.
Tibialis posterior tendonitis luckily does not produce scar tissue but it can get really irritated if you stretch the ankle too much which is what it sounds like is happening in your case. It is a bit tricky because I understand that you need to work on the stiff ankle somehow. Wearing supportive shoes with insoles are usually better than an ankle brace for tib post tendonitis. I discuss more treatment advice in this video: th-cam.com/video/qcc7G3aTmCg/w-d-xo.html
my MRI came back basically normal, but I can't stand or walk, nor just sit here in this chair with the weight of my leg pressing down on my heel. This video was helpful. Likely a bursitis issue imo...will follow your protocol
Thanks for sharing!
How are you dealing with bursitis?
@@kyounao managing well, thx fox asking. Important to get blood-flow going, warm baths, walks, etc...just get the dang blood flowing. It's not great to be sitting in the chair...must get moving, ya feel me? Movement really important
also add magnesium to the warm baths...Epsom Salt for the win
*fantastic!* thank you. i recently got this stiffness myself. i think it could be the doing hills and for1.5+ hrs and suddenly different shoes. it's nice to know what the stiffness actually MEANS. i'll be more cognizant of the stuff you mentioned and monitor this in future as well.
In my case when I eat a lot of bread it reappears. After a few weeks of not eating bread and adding 2x48 hours of fasting it gets normal.
Thank you so much!!! It's a gluten response !!
So helpful and clear!
Glad it was helpful!
Initial injury early November. 6 weeks in boot. 6 weeks physical therapy. Now back at work and I am in pain daily. All day.
Hmmm, 6 weeks is not usually enough time to build proper strength. We find out patients need to follow a very slow, progressive (starting with light exercises - but building as they tolerate) for at least 12 weeks and very often longer. Also, this is not the type of thing you really need to see a physio in person (research shows that hands-on treatment etc. doesn't really work) for on a weekly basis because the rehab is the main thing to help this recover and a person usually just needs a check-in every 2 or 3 weeks to make sure things are going as expected.
If you wanted specific rehab advice and help with getting back to your normal activities pain free, this is something that our team of physios can help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.treatmyachilles.com/
This was great. Thank you very much!
You're very welcome!
Thank you for your insight. I’m a pretty young person (early 20s) but I haven’t been physically active in a few years. I started work at an Amazon warehouse and almost immediately both of my Achilles tendons became super stiff in the morning. I’m lifting heavy boxes/bags and pulling them on around wheeled carts that can weight like 300-500lbs (sometimes up ramps). I think the physical workload has been a shock to my body as it is trying to keep up. It’s good to know my Achilles stiffness isn’t super serious, but it does make me want to start looking for less physical work before it becomes a larger problem.
How you feeling now?
7 mos of pain and stiffness. Nurse who walks a lot at work. I wear Hokas shoe wear. I recently had knee surgery and although resting I have seen no improvement in pain and stiffness. What do you recommend?
Hokas are great but you may find if you add a small heel lift insert that it helps reduce the pain when you walk because Hokas tend to have only a low heel-toe angle. We discuss what shoes can help your recovery in this video: th-cam.com/video/fDL9rEFuGJk/w-d-xo.html But the shoes will obviously just help reduce the strain on the tendon - you still need to take steps to help it recover. We've discussed the best evidence-based treatments in this video: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html
If you want help with your rehab, this is something that our team of physios can assess and help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.treatmyachilles.com
Thank you. I was diagnosed today, and my thoughts were "I'm too scared to do anything because I'll keep tearing it" thanks
People have been making jokes on me that I walked like 'Robocop' when I stood up from the chair 😣😖
🙈 This video has more advice for if you get pain and stiffness after sitting still: th-cam.com/video/Cbm7SK9mBnE/w-d-xo.html
Omg & I thought I walked crazy & every one ask what’s wrong. Those first few steps ‘I’m holding on to stuff’ it’s awful.
Question Doc? What’s the difference between heal spurs and tendonitis of the Achilles’ tendon ?
A heel spur is a tiny piece of bone that grows on the heel bone. Tendonitis affects the tendon. YOu can have a heel spur without any problem in the tendon, you can also have tendonitis without any heel spurs, and then you can have both of them together. They don't really know yet if heel spurs cause tendonitis because patients who have them will often be able to recover from tendonitis but the spur remains. But when someone's tendonitis doesn't want to recover, they may go in and remove the spur to see if it helps.
@@TreatMyAchilles thanks doc. I have both on both feet. Growing up really poor and wearing really cheap shoes without any support damage my feet. Played sports from pee wee to high school ( football) . Never understood why my tendons were so sore hours after I played. Just would ice and take Motrin. Been 35 years and I have been dealing with this. 53 now, and I haven’t played a game of basketball ( full court) in 15-20 years. Hurts too run or sprint. I can jog for about 5-10 minutes then I have to stop and walk. Sounds like I need surgery. Something I really been avoiding for a very long time
The tightness in my achilles when i wake up varies. It feels tighter and more sore when i sleep on a soft bed. It feels much better on a firmer bed. Im usually a side sleeper. Is there any scientific explanation for this?
Not as far as I know. I'm assuming that the beds are in different locations (one at home and one in a hotel for instance) - could it be that it is actually not the bed but rather the activities you do during the day that affects it? E.g. you walk more or wear other shoes on day that you sleep at the place with the soft bed?
Great film thanks
Fantastic explanation. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks so much for this! Very helpful. One question: is it possible through the right treatment and rehabilitation to return the muscle tissue to the proper parallel fiber state, and reduce the amount of fluid between those collagen fibers? Is that just part of the natural healing process, or are there other steps that must be taken?
Yes, your tendon can get strong and healthy - the most important treatment is mix of rest + exercise - if you get that right then it allows it to recover and grow strong again. Other treatments can sometimes be useful but for most cases this is enough. I've discussed all the treatment options in detail in this video: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html
Okay this makes sense! I moved to a very hilly area. So while my walking distance isn’t new, the steep elevation is, plus I broke in my new sneakers during this walk so that may have contributed to it as well.
Sound like that could have done it. If it started only recently, it should recover really well if you just reduce the strain on your tendons for a while by avoiding flat shoes and wearing shoes with heels on them (like normal running shoes) and just easing off activities that really work it. You can find more treatment advice in this video but don't jump into rehab just yet - new cases really just needs a bit of rest: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html
EXACTLY! I noticed this 1st thing out of bed in am about a month ago. I 1st 🤔-I must be sore from something I did 🤷🏻♀️Then it was same each am consistently. My search was verbatim, word for word, your intro. Yes, please to help. What the… ?
Hi there,
You're welcome to book a video consultation with one of our physios if you would like an assessment and a personalised treatment plan: www.treatmyachilles.com/
I have terrible issues going on for over twenty five years. Had grafton and dry needling when it got REALLY bad 7 years ag. But every summer, here in Australia i suffer constantly. And it gets worse with weight gain.
If it only hurts in the summer it may be due to the type of shoes your wear. Typically flip-flops (thongs) and other flat shoes will make it easier to irritate - if you can find a shoe with a slight heel on it, it will help. I know one doesn't want to wear running shoes in the summer but even a supportive sandal with a heel on it will likely help. Here's more info on that: th-cam.com/video/q3-lCfc3RJQ/w-d-xo.html
But also if you want to know more about treatments supported by the research: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html
@@TreatMyAchilles thanks so much, already attempting to change habits and footwear. I tend to wear barefoot and low rise boots and runners during winter with alot less irritation . My summer footcwear is barefeet or crocs swift waters that have a low rise and minor arch support...
Doing the exercises on video from now on.
Was doing completely wrong stretch from chiro which was causing the issue to continue.
Seems to be a combination of factors.
IVE NOTICED THAT MY HEELS MIGHT NOT HURT WHEN I FIRST PUT MY SHOES ON, BUT ONCE I DRIVE AND GET BACK ON MY FEET, THE STIFFNESS/PAIN RETURNS. ON/OFF ALL DURING THE DAY.
What about adding heat or cold? Would that help blood flow and recovery?
Here's our video on heat and ice: th-cam.com/video/WXRbl7XZG50/w-d-xo.html
Oh my goodness. This is exactly the trouble I came here hoping to figure out!
SO well explained. Truly appreciate it.
superb info! thank you my friend
Glad it was helpful!
Mine gets aggravated every time I walk a short distance. It's been going on for years. I'm starting to feel there is a cause somewhere else. I've changed my shoes using multiple types, did stretches, yoga, weight training, nothing works. As soon as I start walking it all comes back.
If you wanted help figuring this out and with getting back to your normal activities, this is something that our team of physios can help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.treatmyachilles.com/
Hi, great channel. What's your opinion on shockwave therapy?
Hi Multikk, here's our video on shockwave: th-cam.com/video/GGZvRdxEXp8/w-d-xo.html
Very informative. Thanks.
You're welcome!
I suspect my age is not helping & also the seasonal change (here in northern New England, US) typically proves problematical for me. As I've gotten older, I find I am not able to walk as far as I normally would, additionally as winter approaches w/ the colder temperatures in place I experience more early morning stiffness & pain in the area. It really is a delicate balance between walking enough to get the benefit & walking too much & causing additional irritation to the area. Thanks for helping me to undestand the problem a little better!
Glad you found the video useful!
It's also from our high acidic diet meat dairy grains ..not enough fruit n veg ..acidosis builds up in legs n feet ..try cutting out all processed foods n drinks
Hiya Maryke, thanks for the video. I’ve consulted with a PT and know exactly what to do for my heels, and I have a plan. I’ve had insertional for 2 months, and my plan began yesterday. Based on your experience, if I’m starting at 4 sets of 45 second isometric holds a day, how long until you think I can gain plyometric ability?
I have no idea - it all depends on how your tendon reacts to the exercises, how much your strength deficit is etc. Ask the physio who gave you the exercises - they should be able to make a more educated guess.
how long does it take Achilles to heal? can you recommend any aids/supports? best footwear?
Have a look at this video - I discuss all the best treatments here: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html
My pain seemed to start when I bought some new trainers and they were a bit high up the ankle. This was over two years ago. I started a part time job a year and a half a go and I walk about 11,000 steps in four hours four days a week. I am 62 years old and overweight and do no other exercise. Iam active in my job but now both achilles hurt. I wake up in the morning with sore ankles and can hardly walk for a short while until I get going. I sometimes gets waves of pain, like burning heat in them. I also struggle with aching feet in general as my circulation is poor and have swollen ankles and wear compression socks. I can't afford any treatment and the physio at the doctors only gave me stretching exercises to do. Not sure what I can do as sometimes the ache is so horrible
Hi @binniesbags I have just made a video (still needs editing) about gentle exercises that can help for very painful tendons, but it also sounds as if you need to review your shoes if your feet hurt in general. Some other videos to watch:
How to manage a painful tendon: th-cam.com/video/mLpBpFV1mww/w-d-xo.html
How heel lift inserts can sometimes help: th-cam.com/video/crzrN0KseWg/w-d-xo.html
@@TreatMyAchilles Thank you. I just bought some more heel lifts as my old ones were too cheap
I injured my heel/tendon playing golf on a steep upward slope. Its been painful for around three months now despite having two or three rest periods (not playing). I have the morning soreness which doesn’t get much better throughout the day. I wondered if you think a TENS machine could be used to help, I have one for a wrist strain and it helps but Im not sure it’s appropriate for this?
Many thanks for taking the time to make these vids. 😊
TENS only helps with temporary pain relief - it doesn't do anything for healing but also don't carry any risks. So, you can use it if you find it helps to make things more comfortable. I've discussed the best evidence-based treatments in this video: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html
Both of mine, at the heel, are more stiff with pain the mornings after recovery days where don’t exercise one bit. It’s so frustrating.
Mine is the opposite at 1st. I'd have long skate days. Sore by night & woke up better but again came bk after flat shoe skates. Im used ro barefoot on hardwood & tile but walking shoes for work & flat for skate
Sounds like you likely then just overdid a bit with too much skating in flat shoes - if you are able to switch to wearing shoes with more of a heel on them (like running shoes) or add heel lifts into your shoes, it can help your tendons to calm down and recover - this video explains it: th-cam.com/video/crzrN0KseWg/w-d-xo.html
Is tendonitis also relative with Haglund's Deformity and if so what can be done to help elevate pain.
Here's our video on Haglund's Deformity - hope you find it useful! th-cam.com/video/Q5ay6kc2x2g/w-d-xo.html
I can’t do anything but make it out to take the trash out or go to the grocery store once a week and then I suffer. In between that, I keep moving around as much as I can, but I can’t find the right shoes. My podiatrist has given up on me. I cannot wear arch supports which causes pain in my arches because I have high arches and I have shortened Achilles tendons and sometimes plantar fasciitis. And if I wear shoes that have too much of a lift in the back, I get pain under my forefoot. I’m a mess. I just want a bit of my life back. I don’t walk normally. I have to try to hide it. And it’s horrible. I have to get my calf muscle stretched out and over a year ago a physical therapist canceled my third appointment because she didn’t want to have to do anything. I think I need trigger point release and Soft tissue work to get the calves to relax. Back in the day, I had plantar fasciitis and we bought an outdoor spa and the very strong jet helped the calf muscles which helped everything else. So I did not have the Achilles issue back then. But the short tendons seem to be what’s causing at all of these problems. And when a podiatrist gives up on you or any doctor or any practitioner gives up on you, you feel like you have no hope. I was on my own years ago and now I’m on my own again, but I don’t have the tools that I need. I don’t have that outdoor spot anymore because my husband Left me because of the injury back then. I have access to a pool, but I don’t know how I’m supposed to do any of those exercises because if I can’t bend my ankle that way anyway how am I supposed to do it in a pool? All I have are two pairs of shoes right now and neither one are working that great and a pair of hiking boots that don’t work very well either. Because I don’t have the right Inserts or maybe that’s not even it. Maybe it’s just the fact that everything is tight and shortened up and I do everything I can before I leave to relax something in there and still I suffer after. And everyone’s right here that when you get up for the first time after sitting, it is horrendous. First thing in the morning is not bad strangely. But then when I start thinking about things and moving around my feet get cold from stress. I’m afraid I’ll never get to go anywhere or do anything again and I’m going on three years here and I can’t take it anymore. I can’t keep sitting here and not getting any exercise. Now I’ve got a bit of plantar fasciitis because I was using my grocery cart to get my trash to the dumpster and I have to walk sideways up a ramp in the basement to get to the elevator and then out the front door of this complex. It is absolutely ridiculous. I feel as if I can call myself crippled at this point. How much does it cost to consult with you?
You can find information about our services and prices here: www.treatmyachilles.com/
Very good video
Thanks
Thankyou. Great video
You are welcome!
for me the pain seems to be in the joint of heel bone and achilles tendon. Is that the same as you described here or different ?
It is the same - it just means that you have insertional Achilles tendonitis (where the tendon attaches to the heel bone). You can find more info about treatment here: th-cam.com/video/H1nfgU1amvg/w-d-xo.html
I have hamstring tendinopathy and experience morning stiffness but I hardly hear about it with the hamstring. Do many PHT patients in your experience have morning stiffness and does it eventually go away?
The majority of tendon injuries have morning stiffness, including PHT. It always goes away as the injury recovers. If it suddenly returns (and sticks around for a few days, not just 1), it is telling you to adjust your training load because the tendon isn't 100% happy.
This is exactly what I'm going through. Since the (intense) pain occurs when I first wake up in the morning I'm wondering if there are sleeping positions that are detrimental, or beneficial, to achilles tendonopothy.
Hi Beth - not really. The pain you feel is usually a bit exaggerated because everything has become a bit stiff from lying still for so long. Something that can help is if you gently point your foot up and down 10 to 20 times before getting out of bed - not forcing it too move but just getting the circulation going. As your rehab and exercises start to strengthen your tendon and it recovers, this morning pain will subside. Alison has just made a brilliant video where she talks about all of this in more detail - it is due to come out next week and it is called: Why not to use night splints, so perhaps keep an eye out for it.
I have been experimenting, when I sleep on my sides my feet get pointed and turned in. I barely slept last night but stayed vigilant about keeping my ankle in a 90 angle. My achilles was way better in the morning. I may invest in the products that splint then for sleeping. Could very well be anecdotal and just my personal issue / reaction.