I have chronic achilles tendonitis in both my ankles and I'm constantly reinjuring them and respraining them. I lay down most of the day with ice packs on because my ankles hurt really bad, a lot of times they burn. The doctors don't seem to know what to do with me. I've tried physical therapy many times, but it just made them worse. I've had this condition since May and I've been almost completely homebound and bedridden. I'm getting desperate, but I want to hold off on surgery because I heard that there wasn't a lot of success in that.
Also, I have plantar faciitis, which I got around the same time. It's gotten a bit better, but hurts when I've walked around too long. I really don't know what to do for it either. The doctors aren't much help.
I have this con which flares up now and again, and have had steriod injections which dont work, i do find wearing a small heal works, wearing flats seems to make it worse.
Below are a few things you can do good luck.
Cold Therapy Wraps – can be wrapped around to apply cold and compression reducing pain and inflammation.
Arch Support Insoles – or orthotic type insoles which give firm support for the arch of the foot can help prevent over pronation and improve foot biomechanics. Overpronation of the foot causes the achilles tendon to twist, increasing the stress on it.
Slant Board – this is excellent for applying an accurate and gradual stretch to the calf muscles. It is easy to identify and difference in calf muscle flexibility when stretching both legs at once. Stretching can be progressively increased and a much greater degree of stretching is possible over achilles stretches on the floor.
Achilles tendon straps – this wraps around the ankle and applies gentlr pressure onto the achilles tendon. It works by reducing the shock and tension in the achilles tendon in the same was as a tennis elbow support works.
Heel Pads – can slightly raise the heels which temporarily shortens the calf muscles reducing stress on the achilles tendons. Also reduces shock which may also reduce stresses on the tendon.
Night Splint – is worn over night to apply a very gentle stretch and prevent tightening of the achilles tendon and plantar fascia. Mainly advertised as plantar fasciitis night splints they are also excellent for achilles / calf muscle flexibility.