Ache-illes

[Curlygurly2]

Who knows about achilles pain? On my last run I got a bit of an ache, not what you'd call a pain exactly...I've had 4 days off, it doesn't seem too bad now but hasn't gone completely, I want to run but don't want to aggravate it and give myself a permanent problem....any advice?

[Steve_L Graduate10]

I've experienced a bit of a problem with my achilles, and went to my osteopath with it. Tends to be a repetitive strain injury. Having a little discomfort shouldn't be a problem, but if you get real pain, like I did, it indicates damage, and needs rest. Just look after it, Sarah, and don't aggrevate it.

He suggested mixing up the runs as a strategy to avoid injury - different surfaces, sprints, intervals, anything to prevent a repetitive load on them.

I still feel niggles there, but nothing more. Foam roller on your calves, going right down to the achilles and around the heel will help, too - the achilles is bigger and covers more area than you'd think!

[Curlygurly2 Graduate10 in reply to Steve_L]

Thanks Steve, I went out this morning, took it easy. A little niggle until 1 KM then a more serious pain, so I stopped. A little rest will probably do it - I hope!

[Steve_L Graduate10 in reply to Curlygurly2]

Yes - if you do any serious damage to it, it can take a long time to heal - it has no direct blood supply. Look after it!

[TurboTortoise]

Take care with those Achilles tendons, I would rest until the pain is gone. I know to my cost that a niggle in that area can linger for ages. Perhaps try some eccentric heel drop excercises too, and massage the area to encourage the blood flow. As Steve says, that's one of the big issues about the Achilles - poor blood supply.

[Curlygurly2 Graduate10 in reply to TurboTortoise]

Thank you TT, it's frustrating, I had a Parkrun planned with Old Git from here this Saturday, then sea side running at Whitby I shall have to make do with walking I suspect xx