How to Fix Your Own Achilles Tendon
I’ve been struggling with Achilles Tendonitis for about two months now. Although I managed to run a marathon in under 3:34 last month, it definitely impacted my training and cost me a few minutes in the race.
Achilles tendons are notoriously slow to heal, because of the limited blood flow to this area. I was trying to be careful not to make the problem worse and hoping that it would slowly heal. Now I’m taking a more aggressive approach, using a couple of self-massage techniques I found that seem to be helping.
Warning: If you try these techniques, it’s going to hurt some. If you feel acute pain, you should see a doctor or physical therapist.
The first technique is cross-friction massage of the Achilles tendon. To do this, you use your thumbs to rub across the Achilles tendon. I’ve embedded a video below.
The second technique is a massage along the Achilles tendon, rather than across the tendon. I’ve embedded a video below.
You can apply these massage techniques once or twice a day for 5-10 minutes at a time. You can also combine the massage with the use of ice to reduce inflammation.
If you have Achilles tendonitis, give these techniques a try and tell me how they worked for you in the comments.
Follow up: I tried these self-massage techniques for 3 days and my Achilles tendon improved significantly. I was able to run about 9 seconds per mile faster. I wish I had tried this earlier.
Related Posts:
Running Through an Injury? Try KT Tape!
You’ve Pulled Your Hamstring - Now What?
Top 10 Ways to Prevent Shin Splints
Piriformis Syndrome is a Pain in the Ass
Torn Your Meniscus? It’s Not the End of Your Running Career!
Foam Roll or The Stick - Which is Best?
