Achilles Tendonitis is an inflammation of the Achilles Tendon. The Achilles Tendon joins the heads of the gastrocnemius and the soleus muscles (calf muscles). Initial symptoms are a dull, aching pain in the tendon after running.

When standing, the Achilles Tendon is constantly under pressure resulting in limited blood circulation to the tissue. Inflammation of the Achilles Tendon is often caused by the tissue just in front of it.

Improper treatment of Achilles Tendonitis can lead to major problems. Cross friction massage often irritates this area, extending the period of recovery rather than reducing the problem. Problems often arise (with the treatment of this syndrome) when a therapist uses heavy direct pressure and tension over the Achilles Tendon. We have seen numerous case of Achilles Tendonitis that were needlessly prolonged because of ineffective treatments.         

Treating the Achilles Tendon with Active Release Techniques

Active Release Techniques is very successful at treating injuries of the Achilles tendon, as it addresses the release of restrictive adhesions between both superficial and deep tissue structures - not just at the Achilles tendon, but also all along the soft-tissue structures of the tendon's kinetic chain.  

Kinetic Chain Structures of the Achilles Tendon

Other structures of the Achilles tendon's kinetic chain that we commonly find are involved in Achilles tendon injuries include:

• The hamstrings, a group of muscles which includes the biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus. Tension and restrictions in these muscles results in increased stress upon the muscles of the lower leg.
• The tibialis posterior lies deep to the calf muscles. This muscle inverts the foot, (turns the foot inwards) and plantar flexes the foot (helps you to point your toes down).
• The popliteus muscle, which lies deep behind the knee and is involved in medial knee rotation. When it is restricted, it places increased stress upon the lower extremities.
• The soleus muscle is a powerful plantar flexor of the foot and gives you the ability to rise up on your toes.
• The flexor digitorum longus works to flex toes two thru five. It also helps to plantar flex the foot.
• The flexor hallucis longus, flexor hallucis brevis, and the tibialis anterior muscles, which are all involved in cases of increased pronation and hyperpronation.
• The plantaris muscle, which inserts into the middle one third of the posterior calcaneal surface (heel bone), just on the inside of the Achilles tendon. This muscle assists in plantar flexion of the foot and is also involved in flexion of the leg.

Each Achilles tendon injury is treated as a unique case, with treatments being applied to only those structures that require attention.

Since ART protocols are structure- specific and based upon the individual needs of each athlete, the practitioner is able to customize each treatment to include the specific soft-tissue structures involved in the injury.                   

Dr. Brian Abelson is the Clinical Director of Edgemont Chiropractic Soft-tissue Management Systems, in Calgary, Alberta. 

Dr. Abelson is a native Calgarian who attended the University of Calgary, majoring in Biosciences, before graduating from Palmer College of Chiropractic West, California with an award for Clinical Excellence. He holds advanced certification in all levels of Active Release Techniques, is trained in Biomechanics and ART, is an accomplished ART Instructor, and is licensed to the ART Elite Providers Network.

He is co-author of "Release Your Pain" the first book for the public about Active Release Techniques. He is also the co-author of the award-winning information websites: www.drabelson.com and www.activerelease.ca.