Achilles tendonitis is an injury that results from irritation of the tendon that connects the muscles in the back of your leg with the heel bone.
It’s a common ailment among runners, gymnasts, and middle-aged people who practice sports like tennis or basketball.
It can occur when there’s a sudden increase in your physical activity, but it can also be due to repetitive movements or a lack of stretching prior to exercise.
While Achilles tendonitis can result in a tear that requires surgical intervention, most of the time it can be treated with care and alternative remedies at home.
Today we want to review some of the main causes and share several home treatments with you to help promote relief.
Causes of Achilles tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis occurs when the Achilles tendon becomes irritated due to repetitive or intensified tension. This tendon is used whenever you walk, run, jump, or stand on your toes.
The structure of the tendon weakens with age so you’re more likely to suffer from it when you’re older.
Other risk factors include:
- Having flat feet
- Being overweight or obese
- Experiencing stiff calf muscles
- Running in worn or inappropriate shoes
- Running on hard surfaces like concrete
- Practicing sports that involve a lot of jumping
Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis
The pain associated with Achilles tendonitis occurs in the back of the leg or above the ankle.
This discomfort often manifests itself after you run or practice a sport. It also tends to increase when you walk or perform certain movements.
The tendon might be sensitive to touch and the area could become noticeably inflamed or hot.
Natural remedies to Relieve Achilles tendonitis
Most cases of Achilles tendonitis don’t require surgical intervention. The symptoms are usually reduced in a short time with rest and certain natural remedies.
1. Salt and vinegar
This relaxing treatment can decrease inflammation and speed up the recovery process from Achilles tendonitis.
It will improve your circulation and increase oxygen supply to the affected tissues, to promote rapid relief.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups of water (750 ml)
- 3 tbsp. of coarse salt (45 g)
- ½ cup of apple cider vinegar (125 ml)
Preparation:
- Heat the water and add it to a large bowl before it boils.
- Pour in the coarse salt and apple cider vinegar.
How to use it:
- Soak your feet in this container, being sure to cover the affected area.
- After 20 minutes dry your feet carefully.
- Use it every day until you notice an improvement.
2. Castor oil and olive oil
Therapy with castor oil and olive oil is a traditional way to alleviate tendonitis. Direct application decreases inflammation and calms the feeling of stiffness and pain.
Ingredients:
- 5 tbsp. of castor oil (75 g)
- 3 tbsp. of olive oil (48 g)
Preparation:
- Combine the two oils and heat them for 20 seconds in the microwave.
How to use it:
- Be sure that this treatment is cool enough to use and then rub it carefully over the affected areas.
- Leave it on without rinsing and repeat the massage twice a day.
3. Turmeric
The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, is a powerful analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent that helps reduce the symptoms of Achilles tendonitis.
Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp. of turmeric powder (45 g)
- water (as much as needed)
Preparation:
- Add enough water to the ground turmeric until you obtain a thick paste.
How to use it:
- Apply this treatment to the affected area and cover it with a cloth bandage.
- Leave it on all night and change in the morning.
- Continue its usage until your condition improves.
4. Ginger
Ginger root is a powerful and natural anti-inflammatory agent that can help control the pain and swelling that are caused by this condition.
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp. of ginger (5 g)
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
Preparation:
- Add the ginger to a cup of boiling water and cover.
- Let it stand for 10 minutes and then strain off the liquid.
How to use it:
- Drink this tea two to three times a day.
5. Aloe and mint oil
This refreshing treatment for inflammation will alleviate Achilles tendonitis. Direct application helps relax the inflamed tendon and improves your mobility.
Ingredients:
- 5 tbsp. of aloe vera gel (75 g)
- 1 tsp. of mint oil (5 g)
Preparation:
- Combine the aloe with the mint oil.
How to use it:
- Apply this treatment to the affected area and cover with a cloth.
- Use it every day to alleviate tendonitis.
If these home remedies don’t help improve your condition, talk with a doctor to identify other forms of treatment.
