Achilles Tendonitis
The most common diagnosis for pain in the back of the heel is Achilles Tendonitis. The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body and attaches to the back of the heel bone. Pain can occur in the back of the calf and above the heel. Some injuries can be more severe tears, and some can even lead to a tendon rupture. An MRI is definitive in the diagnosis.
Useful Homecare Options
If your Achilles starts acting up, here are some natural remedies:
- Heel lifts. Do not confuse this with heel cups. The idea behind a lift is to create slack in the tendon. Always use heel lifts bilaterally to reduce the risk of additional injuries.
- Epsom salt and warm water soak for 20-minute sessions. You may alternate with 20 min of ice.
- Essential oils: Deep blue rub and oil, copaiba, AromaTouch blend, and lemongrass can ease the pain. Use alone or in combination with fractionated coconut oil.
- Lower extremity stretches include placing the painful foot on your lap and pulling the toes down to create slack in the Achilles. The calf stretches by standing on a step and gently lowering the heel to the floor while holding onto a railing. A towel stretch is performed by placing a towel around the ball of the foot and gently pulling the foot towards you. Stretching should be gentle and should stop if pain occurs.
- Earthing. Placing your feet in direct contact with the earth or using an indoor earthing pad. Earthing is a natural way to decrease pain and inflammation.
- When needed, I recommend a tendon support, such as AchilloTrain.
Always seek your Podiatrist if symptoms do not improve.