What is Achilles tendinopathy?

The Achilles tendon is an extremely powerful tendon that connects the sural triceps, the calf muscle, to the calcaneus, the main bone of the heel. It measures between 12 and 15 cm and is about 5 mm thick, and is active during walking, running, jumping, etc. The elasticity of this tendon tends to diminish sharply with age, making it vulnerable.

We speak of Achilles heel tendinopathy or tendonitis when the tendon undergoes painful and incapacitating inflammation. The lesion may be located at different heights on the tendon, resulting in micro-ruptures in the tendon fibers. Tissue swelling and a sensation of heat are observed in the injured area. Tendonitis is common among runners, but is not restricted to sportsmen and women.

What are the main causes of Achilles heel tendinopathy?

Achilles tendonitis is a so-called "overuse" injury caused by excessive strain on the Achilles tendon. The origin of tendinopathy may or may not be directly related to sporting activity.

Main non-sporting causes :

• Hydration and nutrition are a major factor of imbalance when they are not sufficiently taken into account
• Poor plantar staticsflat or hollow foot
• A difference in length of the lower limbs

For athletes, the causes can be as follows:

• Lack of warm-up or stretching
• A change to the program training
• A modification to the terrain training
• A change in rhythm training
• Wearing new shoesnot adapted to ensure good amortization

How to recognize the symptoms of Achilles tendinopathy?

Tendon insertion painon the heel bone or a few centimetres higher, is obviously the most important symptom. It can occur progressively during exercise or after a training session. The limp is noticeable and movement is complicated. Swelling can also occur. Movements requiring contraction of the calf or passage en pointe become difficult to perform.

Achilles tendinopathy is a pathological condition which requires a clinical examination supplemented by imaging to identify risks of rupture and prescribe the best course of treatment for the patient.

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How can Achilles heel tendinopathy be relieved naturally?

There are several natural and effective solutions for relieving Achilles tendonitis.

• The cold : applied to the injured area, cold cools the tendon and soothes the pain.

• Muscular strengthening : when the evolution of the injury allows it, eccentric muscle-strengthening exercises will strengthen the tendon and stretch the calf muscle.

• STIMCARE Patches : The eNOsyntex technology used in these patches is made up of rare natural mineral oxides. Their action mirrors the infrared rays emitted by the body during inflammation. By concentrating these infrared rays, patches help rebuild damaged tissue and improve blood microcirculation. Toxins are drained and pain is relieved for good.

Follow the video tutorial " Achilles tendon relief "To help you apply the patches and optimize recovery, 3 patches are glued to key points.

Tendinopathy is a disabling condition that can lead to rupture if not properly managed. STIMCARE Patches help you to naturally relieve pain and promote the reconstruction of damaged tissue, a simple and effective alternative for quickly regaining the pleasure of pain-free running.