More Facts About Achilles Tendonitis:

The Achilles tendon does not have a rich blood supply. Blood supply is weakest at a point between 2 and 6 cm above its insertion into the calcaneus (heel bone).


Ignoring pain in the Achilles tendon (ie. "running through the pain") is the biggest cause of chronic Achilles tendonitis.


For cyclists, initial Achilles tendon stress is often caused by having a low saddle height. This low saddle height can result in excessive dorsiflexion of the foot, which stresses the Achilles tendon.


The Achilles tendon is the connection between the heel and the most powerful muscle group in the body.


Tennis and soccer players over 40 are the most frequent sufferers of tennis leg (calf muscle strain).


Sudden increases in running and or active sprinting sports can cause Achilles tendonitis.


Excessive running up and down hills can aggravate the Achilles tendon.


Stiff shoe soles at the ball of the foot will increase Achilles tendon strain.


Excessive heel shock absorption can overstretch the Achilles tendon.


Tight hamstrings and/or tight calf muscles create excess strain on the Achilles tendon.


For triatheletes, the most common cause of injuries to the Achilles tendon is overpronation, inflexibility, or lack of strength.


Immobility, due to an Achilles injury, may result in a contracted Achilles tendon and an increased amount of scar tissue.

 


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Midpoint and Insertional
Achilles Tendonitis


The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body connecting the calf muscles in your leg to your heel bone. Achilles Tendonitis can occur at two points in your Achilles tendon. Depending on the location, these are termed Midpoint Achilles Tendonitis and Insertional Achilles Tendonitis, or Achilles Tendonitis at the Point of Insertion. There may only be small differences in the location of the midpoint vs insertional tendonitis, but they are separated into two different injuries. These 2 injuries differ also in the type of tissue that is damaged.


Midpoint Achilles Tendonitis

Midpoint Achilles Tendonitis or Tendonosis

The "midpoint" of the achilles tendon is a few inches above the heel at the back of the foot. The tendon tissue in this area is dense, but enjoys significantly more blood flow compared to the achilles tendon at the insertion point. The great blood flow is due to the close proximity of the attached calf muscles. While Midpoint Achilles Tendonitis is less common than Insertional Achilles Tendonitis, it more commonly affects younger and active people.

Causes of Midpoint Achilles Tendonitis

  • repetitive strain from running or jumping
  • a sudden increase in exercise (running extra miles without giving your body a chance to adjust) or suddenly starting an aggressive exercise program
  • having weak or tight calf muscles
  • poor range of motion in the ankle
  • overpronation of the foot (the foot rolls inwards)

Symptoms of Midpoint Achilles Tendonitis

If you are suffering from Midpoint Achilles tendonitis you will most likely be experiencing:

  • morning stiffness and pain along the tendon
  • severe pain the day after exercising
  • thickening of the tendon
  • swelling of the area is present all the time and gets worse throughout the day with activity.



Insertional Achilles Tendonitis

There is typically between 2 to 6 centimeters of the Achilles tendon that connects or 'inserts' into your heel bone. It is not uncommon for tendon damage to occur in this area, and if so, it is aptly named "Insertional Achilles Tendinitis". This attachment point of the tendon to the heel bone has a very poor blood supply and as such, degeneration of the tendon is most common at this point..

10% of runners suffer from Insertional Achilles Tendonitis

Heel bones vary in shape and size from person to person; with such varations, a small heel bone can put extra stress on your Achilles tendon. This puts you at greater risk of injury than the average person. An irregular shaped heel (calcaneus) can also cause the Achilles tendon to twist which can also lead to further irritation and damage.

The heel of the foot is a small area with a lot going on. Within this confined space lie the Achilles tendon attachment, the bursa sac (lubricates the joint), the plantar fascia and the fat pad under the heel. Any or all of these can become irritated, causing a significant challenge to heal the tendon. If irritation persists (which it often does), this will lead to chronic Insertional Achilles tendonitis . With a chronic case of insertional achilles tendonitis, damaged tendon fibers are more likely to harden (become calcified) which is termed as calcified tendinitis. This condition is due to extra calcium gathering where the Achilles tendon is under stress over long periods, and often result in a bone spur.

Insertional Achilles Tendinitis is not directly related to a specific injury. This condition most commonly affects people in their 40's as they become more active with increased exercise programs or people that are weekend warriors. There is a correlation of increased risk of this condition occurring in those that suffer from psoriasis, Reiter's syndrome, spondyloarthropathy, gout, familial hyperlipidemia, sarcoidosis and diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis.

Resting too long, or using bracing to restrict movement for extended periods of time, can decrease mobility of your Achilles tendon and increase pain.

Common Causes of Insertional Achilles Tendonitis

Contracting tendonitis at the insertion point of the heel can be caused by:

  • A breakdown of the tendon fibers of the Achilles tendon due to heavy use without adequate rest
  • Inflammation of the bursa (small fluid-filled sac that lubricates the ankle joint)
  • Inflammation of the tendon sheath (is a layer of membrane around a tendon, allowing the tendon move with wear) in the same area
  • Calcium deposits (bone spur) within the tendon at the heel bone (60% of the time this is confirmed with an x-ray. American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society)
  • A sudden increase in exercise (running extra miles without giving your body a chance to adjust) or suddenly starting an aggressive exercise program
  • Having weak or tight calf muscles
  • Poor range of motion in the ankle
  • Overpronation of the foot (the foot rolls inwards)

Common Symptoms of Insertional Achilles Tendonitis

If you are suffering from Insertional Achilles Tendonitis you will most likely be experiencing:

  • morning stiffness and pain along the tendon
  • in the early stages, it often feels like a throbbing bruise at the back of the heel
  • pain along the back of the heel bone and even onto the sole of the foot - this gets worse when you are active
  • severe pain the day after exercising
  • thickening of the tendon
  • the area is swollen all the time and gets worse throughout the day with activity.

Depending on the severity of your condition, your physician may recommend conservative treatment options (click to view). In severe cases, surgery may be undertaken after which you will enter a period of surgical recovery. click here to view more information about surgical recovery.


Conservative Treatment Options for Midpoint and Insertional Achilles Tendonitis

Stage 1: If the injury is very recent (acute) - use a good quality cold pack and Arnica Pain Relief Cream. If the injury has been going on for awhile, then skip to Stage 2 below.

If you are experiencing pain and swelling in the very early stages of the injury (first 48 to 72 hours), the first step in a conservative treatment protocol would be to focus on reducing the discomfort by applying a quality cold pack to the injured achilles along with a high quality pain relief cream such as our Arnica Infusion Cream.

Not only will you use your cold pack for the first 48 to 72 hours after the injury, but you should also use it during other stages of the healing process. Some examples include...

  • after any activity that stresses the achilles in a moderate way. It is wise to quickly apply cold to not only reduce the pain, but to also minimize tissue damage that may have occurred during the prior event.
  • If you have a job that requires you to place some demands on your injured achilles/ankle. If that is the case, use cold immediately following work and if the opportunity allows - use it for 15 to 20 minutes during lunch or another break time.
  • If you are in a post-operative situation where cold compression would be utilized heavily for at least the first few weeks following the procedure. Similarly, if you are scheduled for upcoming surgery, then you will need a high quality cold device to use.

Having a Cold Compress or Ice Pack available at home to use if and when the need arises is helpful. Many of you already do so.

However, too many people over-focus on cold while ignoring the most critical aspect to healing - nourishing the injured tissues with a healthy supply of blood flow needed to repair and rebuild the injured tissues.

This leads to the most important recommendation...

Stage 2: Focus on Increasing Blood Flow To The Achilles As This is The ONLY Way To Gain Strong Healthy Soft Tissue

Even though the concept is simple, improving blood flow to injured tissues can be difficult. When the injury is ankle related, the challenges are even greater. Traditional methods require your muscle to move to promote blood flow (exercise), but that same motion that promotes blood flow can at times lead to making your pain and condition worse.

  • Have you reinjured your achilles by returning to work too quickly?
  • How many times in the past have you aggravated your lower leg just trying to perform basic tasks around the home?
  • Is your debilitated heel/achilles preventing you from work or activities you love to do?

Most people we deal with tell us these scenarios have happened to them many times in the past. Perhaps it has already happened to you.

Promoting blood flow within a muscle or soft tissue injury to help the body heal itself is a concept that has been utilized for centuries. This is where the focus has to be if you are seeking long-term improvement.

Oxygen and nutrients, carried within the blood, are critical for the body to heal itself. Without proper blood flow, recovering from an injury or condition will be delayed...sometimes for a very long period of time.

The real challenge is how do you promote blood flow to the tendon without causing further injury? This goal is further complicated by the fact the achilles (and muscles controlling the ankle joint) are involved in the majority of the physical movements we perform each day.

energy pad tshellz soft tissue

An injury that often leads to straining in other areas will make an overall recovery hard to initiate. People tend to "chase the pain", meaning they only focus on treating an area that is actively painful, while not taking into account the fact they other areas of the body will be overcompensating...eventually leading to issues in those areas as well.

It is through the blood the body carries the nutrients and oxygen that injured tissues rely on for recovery.. It is well known that increased blood flow helps your body accelerate the healing process.

This is why the TShellz Wrap®is such an important tool. The whole purpose of the wrap is to provide localized heat while also significantly increasing blood flow to tissue in the treatment area. The result of this is as follows:

  • Blood vessels within the treatment area relax and naturally expand (this is termed "vasodilation") permitting more blood flow to reach the very tissues you are trying to heal.
  • When tissue temperature increases, the tissues increase both in length and flexiblity. Elongated and flexible tissue is less likely to strain and tear, so your risk of further injury and/or reinjury is reduced when this occurs. Less injury during recovery means 1) your recovery will be streamlined and not sidelined due to recurring injury, and 2) less re-injury will mean less scar tissue should grow in the area.
  • Enhanced blood flow benefits tissue in a number of ways: 1) It is likely to clear the area of toxins and excess fluid build up more quickly, thereby reducing inflammation and 2) Scar tissue can form in areas that are starved for blood flow - an enhanced blood flow is more likely to reduce such occurrences.

With a TShellz Wrap® application, more blood begins to flow effectively to the treatment area - for the length of the treatment and a short duration thereafter. Deep tissue needs the extra blood flow to heal as it is through the blood the body carries the oxygen and nutrients needed for proper and long-term healing.

Now, on to recommendation number two in the journey to heal your injured achilles...

The Achilles TShellz Wrap® - A Healthy Achilles For The Long Term

The best option we came across in our research to accomplish effective blood flow to tissue in the achilles area at home is the Achilles TShellz Wrap®. Use of this device results in an increase of blood flow within the treatment area - all in a non-invasive manner.

Have you seen what happens when you add water to a flower wilted from drought? In essence, your injured achilles is much like a "wilted" flower; your body wants to heal its injury, but needs lots of nutrients to do it. Blood brings life to your tissue by delivering healing nutrients and oxygen that are vital for their growth and survival. In addition, the blood carries away toxins and waste cleaning the area and healing it faster. Without a good supply of blood, your achilles simply won't heal properly.

Using a TShellz Wrap® will not expose you to the risk of causing further harm to soft tissue like you can when using rigorous exercise. The Achilles TShellz Wrap® accomplishes the goal of enhanced blood flow without the need for intensive exercise and as such reduces your risk of re-injury.

TShellz Wrap® = Localized Enhanced Circulatory Response (LEC Response)

tshellz achilles coverage

The intention of an Achilles TShellz Wrap® is to ease pain by dilating blood vessels, decrease stiffness by elongating soft tissue, improve blood circulation, and boost metabolism and enzyme activity. In stimulating localized blood flow to damaged soft tissue, you provide needed oxygen and nutrients to grow strong healthy collagen. In addition, you will experience a clearing of toxins and excess fluid build up from the injury site. Over the intermediate term, this helps to reduce incidents of swelling as trapped fluids will be whisked away - reducing pressure on blood vessels.

Using the TShellz Wrap® is truly a unique experience. Within moments of applying a treatment to your achilles, you can feel the healing sensation due to the increase in blood flow within the area. During a treatment, and for quite some time after you finish, the treated area will feel relaxed and warm. It's a very soothing sensation and extremely effective. Blood flow in this area is key, as the Achilles tendon receives very little blood flow to begin with.


Who Should Use the Achilles TShellz Wrap®

We recommend the use of an Achilles TShellz Wrap®:

  • If you have injured your achilles or other soft tissue in the back of your heel, then the Achilles TShellz Wrap® will provide the all-important function of boosting blood circulation where it is needed most.
  • If you are dealing with conditions affecting your range of motion such as impingement or even arthritis.
  • If you have a chronic achilles condition that has lasted for years- this device is intended to kick start the recovery process and help strengthen the surrounding and supporting tissues. Many of our past clients had suffered for years, then were completely amazed at the results only after a few months of treatments.
  • If you are still working with an injured achilles, the TShellz Wrap® will help relax injured soft tissue prior to work and after a day at the job.
  • If you are still trying to enjoy your favorite activities such as gardening, tennis, golf, etc - use the TShellz Wrap® prior to activity to help reduce chances of re-injuring or re-aggravating those targeted tissues.
  • If you are suffering from bursitis and want to treat a major source of it (secondary damage to the muscle and tendon surrounding the bursa sac). Through overuse or degenerative changes in the lower leg, the muscle and tendons surrounding the bursa sacs will tighten and constrict. When they do, they place pressure on the bursa, causing it to become irritated. Applying a TShellz Wrap® to the achilles helps relax soft tissue, taking pressure off the bursa.
  • If you are experiencing atrophy in your lower leg and want to reduce the chance of re-injury - this is a perfect treatment to use on a regular basis, by enhancing blood flow and elongating soft tissue.
  • If you have been to a clinic for some form of massage or stretching and your PT or physician has recommended conservative treatments for home.
  • If you have injured your achilles and need surgery, then you will find a blood circulation booster to be a powerful tool after surgery to help surgically repaired tissues recover for long-term health. (once the surgery wound has healed and your physician has given the ok)
  • If you are experiencing tightness in your muscle(s) and want to reduce the chance of re-injury while stretching - we recommend the use of a TShellz Wrap® before you stretch.

TShellz Wraps® contain a unique Carbon Fiber Energy Pad which is flexible and will shape to conform to your body. This Energy Pad emits a uniform wave of perfectly safe energy over its entire surface. This energy is absorbed by soft tissue in your achilles and lower leg, opening blood vessels, resulting in an increase in blood flow. Increased blood circulation is what your body needs to accelerate the healing of soft tissue and this is why we recommend the Achilles TShellz Wrap® for the achilles heel area.


What Else Makes the Achilles TShellz Wrap® So Special?

We believe the TShellz Wrap® to be one of the most effective home treatments to increase localized blood flow to tissue in the area of application.

We can promise that you will receive a product that is designed to be safe and does what it is supposed to do...quickly relieve pain and aid in the recovery from tendon, muscle and other soft tissue injuries.

The unit plugs into a standard wall outlet to get its power. The nice thing about the power supply is that the same unit can be used in North America and overseas as well. It has the capability to operate between 110v and 230v.

The TShellz Wrap® has a special signal controller that can be set for 3 different power levels of application (3=High, 2=Medium, 1=Low). The cord is long enough that you can sit or lie comfortably and watch TV, read or surf the net while you're using it.

Treatments are max 30 minutes in duration and the device can be worn over clothing. This allows you to use the device at work, at home, or really anywhere you have access to an electrical outlet.


A Recap of the Benefits of the Achilles TShellz Wrap®..

  • It can be used before activity or exercise to warm up tissue in the back of the lower leg/heel to reduce the risk of further injury
  • achilles T•Shellz Wrap
  • FDA Registered medical device for use in home or clinics - very high quality
  • Temporarily increases flexibility and length of soft tissue (reducing the re-injury factor)
  • It soothes pain and whisks away toxins
  • Carbon fiber Energy Pad is strong, lightweight, and flexible - contours very easily
  • A boost in blood flow helps maximize the body's ability to recover from soft tissue damage. This can be beneficial in saving time and money when associated with doctor or physio visits
  • A boost in blood flow will maximize the body's ability to recover quickly. This can be beneficial in achilles post-surgery rehabilitation, getting you back to work faster. Do not use until at least 6 weeks after surgery, and only after approval from your doctor.

When Should I Use My TShellz Wrap During the Day?

The most common question we receive from individuals prior to purchasing is - how many times a day should I be using my TShellz Wraps® and when should I be using them? While treatment plans will differ for each individual and their specific injury, there are general guidelines that should be adhered to.

  • Use a Cold Compress or Ice Pack when you are experiencing inflammation (usually after exertion or movement of the injury area).

The Achilles TShellz Wrap® would then be used:

  • Right after rising from bed in the morning (as this is when it is most stiff)
  • Prior to going to bed at night (to relax the achilles, allowing for better sleep)
  • Before you know you will be using your injured joint (going to work, driving, running, walking, etc).

Stage 3 - In Between Treatments With TShellz Wrap®, Apply Our New Fast Acting Pain Relief Cream Called ARNICA INFUSION

Dealing with aches and pains affecting the foot, ankle, leg, knee, hamstring, hip, back, arm, shoulder, elbow, wrist, or hand? If so, then applying the Arnica Infusion to any of these targeted areas will bring about fast relief from the pain and sore tissues. Simply apply a small amount of cream to the body and moments later, you will experience a soothing and comforting sensation over the area.

Arnica Infusion is specially designed to relieve pain due to sore muscles and joints associated with arthritis, backaches, sprains, strains, and bruises. No matter if you are dealing with an acute injury, chronic pain, or a general "flare-up" - you will experience fast relief from pain and inflammation.

mendmeshop arnica pain relief cream

This is a product that many of our current MendMeShop customers asked us to develop. So we focused our time and resources over the past few years and came up, with we believe, will be one of more effective, fast acting, topical pain relief creams on the market.

You are likely familiar with some of the standard topical agents on the market as most of our customers use them. The are mass marketed and even found in most department stores now.

Well, we are here to say that Arnica Infusion goes many steps beyond what they offer.

Made in the USA at an FDA registered manufacturing facility, you can be assured that Arnica Infusion is both safe and effective. We only source top grade ingredients while implementing strict quality control checks during every step of the production process. Expect the same high quality that MendMeShop customers have been accustomed to since we started the company in 2005.

The "Cool Blue" formula is the perfect balance between the smooth application of a cream and the effective absorbing factor of a gel. It is not too thick and not too thin - just the right texture. Best of all, it feels very nice on the skin!

Each application of Arnica Infusion feels so comforting and soothing, we are certain it will become an item you will not want to live without.

Arnica Infusion Ingredients

The Arnica Infusion formula is based on a combination of scientific research and the use of high quality ingredients. The properties within the formula were chosen for their pain relief, anti-inflammatory, and soothing qualities.

The acting ingredients within the formula include ones many of us are familiar with; along with ones that have not received a lot of publicity (only in research circles). Extensive testing resulted in a blending of ingredients that provides the most synergistic of benefits.

The notable ingredients in the Arnica Infusion formula include:

  • Arnica - powerful anti-inflammatory, speeds recovery, enhances circulation
  • Menthol - provides deep penetrating pain relief with a nice cooling sensation
  • Vitamin B6 - promotes normal nerve function
  • MSM - supports healthy connective tissues, anti-inflammatory
  • Ilex Leaf Extract - increases circulation, skin conditioner
  • Vitamin E - anti-inflammatory, enhances circulation, hydrates the skin
  • Aloe - anti-inflammatory properties, soothes the skin
  • Tea Tree - enhances penetration of ingredients

Extensive quality control procedures during the manufacturing process ensure the ingredients and final product are both safe and effective. We would not stake our reputation on anything but the best.

When Do I Apply the Arnica Infusion?

While At Work

Apply Arnica Infusion at work to help reduce acute discomfort associated with overuse of muscles and joints. No matter if you are in a physical demanding job or work within an office environment, you will be placing stress on different parts of the body and aches and pains will result.

Before Or After Work, Sports, & Activity

If you suffer from a sprained ligament, pulled muscle, strained tendon, or even bruising - apply Arnica Infusion for quick relief of the pain.

Chronic Pain Suffering

Application of Arnica Infusion can be done up to a maximum of 4 times per day on a consistent basis to help bring about relief from various pains and aches.

In-between Treatments With the TShellz Wraps®

Follow up your T-Shellz and Cold treatments with an application of Arnica Infusion. Combine the pain relieving benefits of Arnica Infusion along with the healing benefits of the wraps to make your recovery go much more smoothly.

Do not apply Arnica Infusion within a 2 hour timespan before a TShellz Wrap® treatment.

Whether you decide to use the Arnica Infusion in conjunction with the TShellz Wrap® and other treatments - or if you decide to use the cream as a stand-alone product - you will not be disappointed with the results. We guarantee it.


A Note On OverCompensation

Since you are reading this, you probably know that serious achilles injuries do not just disappear. Over time, they usually wreak havoc on your knee and ankle due to lack of movement and over-compensation. It will also wreak havoc on your opposite achilles due to overcompensation. Recovery takes a longer time for such chronic (long term) injuries, but proper healing is essential to regain strength and get you back to the activities you enjoy.

The longer your injury endures, the greater the risk of running into serious overcompensation injuries.

To Stop Re-Injury & Reduce the Risk of a More Serious Overcompensation Injury, You Need to Heal Quickly & Completely!

Anyone in need of rapid recovery and complete healing must consider a comprehensive treatment plan that includes an effective means to minimize swelling and inflammation yet also stimulate healing and tissue elasticity. We have found no better set of tools that can be used at home than this:

Conservative Treatment Tools Our Clients Have Used to Help
Limit Achilles Damage & Boost The Body's Soft Tissue Repair Process at Home:

  • A Cold Compress or Ice Pack to reduce inflammation wherever there is pain and/or swelling (as soon as possible).
  • An Achilles TShellz Wrap to increase blood-flow to the achilles area (a Localized Enhanced Circulatory Response® Treatment).
  • MendMeShop Arnica Pain Cream for temporary relief of pain due to sore muscles and joints.
  • A High Quality Knee Pillow if you are experiencing discomfort when resting or trying to sleep (or you want .
  • A Copper Infused Ankle Compression Support Sleeve for light tendon support and risk reduction of further injury.
  • An Exercise & Stretching Plan to prevent muscle atrophy and shortened tendons in the leg. A proper plan will increase elasticity and strengthen the muscles and tendons in the ankle, calf, knee, and upper leg.

Conservative treatment tools just like these have been used successfully by thousands of soft tissue injury sufferers - just like you.


TShellz Shop


TShellz Wrap® = Enhanced Blood Flow in the Treatment Area

We believe the use of TShellz Wraps® for boosting blood flow to soft tissue in the area of application is one of the most under-utilized home treatment options available on the market today. We have client after client that have tried many options out there and have been amazed at how effective and fast the TShellz Wrap treatment can relieve pain and increase blood flow in the treatment area.

With regular use of the TShellz Wrap:

  • Your pain will be reduced*.
  • Due to increased blood flow, soft tissue in the treatment area will be expected to recover at an accelerated rate with reduced potential for re-injury*.
  • Tissue in the treated area should experience a larger range of motion and increased extensibility of collagen tissue* due to the heat effect on soft tissue. This should translate into a reduced rate of re-injury occurrence as soft tissue is known to lengthen and become more flexible when exposed to warm temperature. (*Chapter 9 of "Therapeutic Heat and Cold", 4th edition. (amazon.com link - Ed. Justus F. Lehmann, M.D., Williams, and Wilkin)

Not only does the incorporation of conservative treatments (such as the use of a Cold Compress or Ice Pack and the Achilles TShellz Wrap®) greatly assist with the body's recovery process, but it also contributes to minimizing risk of long term complications. Pain, lack of mobility, tendinosis, or a complete tendon rupture are some of the more common long term complications that can occur when achilles tendinitis, tendon tears, and other injuries go untreated. By treating your achilles properly with a doctor recommended home conservative treatment protocol (including a stretching regimen), you can minimize proliferation of scar tissue while maintaining flexibility and strong blood flow in the area. This will help reduce the risk of chronic problems in the future.

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Scar Tissue

During the healing process and especially in surgery, scar tissue can build on injured soft tissue. This scar tissue can cause tendons, muscles, and bursa to thicken, increasing the chance of impingements.

In addition, scar tissue can bind the tendons, muscles and ligaments together limiting the movement of these tendons and ligaments that were once elastic and allowed the ankle its large range of motion. As a result, movement of the entire joint is limited making it difficult to walk without a limp or do basic tasks such as climb stairs. If left untreated, the ankle may 'freeze' further, making movement even more problematic. At the very least, scar tissue leaves your tendon weaker than a healthy tendon, leaving your achilles at greater risk of further deterioration and possible tearing.

Shortened muscles and tendons due to lack of use is a real problem during recovery. When you start to feel better and use the joint, the shortened muscles and tendons get over-strained, introducing small microtears. These microtears start the formation of scar tissue, which unlike muscle or tendon, is completely inflexible. Once there is scar tissue in there, the tears will continue; eventually you've got a serious problem with a joint that does not flex as much as it did before and this becomes a chronic condition. You'll know you have scar tissue when you get shooting pain if you stretch your joint too far... it is something that PTs often deal with (ie. shoulder manipulation).

To prevent this, use the TShellz Wrap before undertaking any significant activity, as this treatment will actually increase the flexibility of muscles, tendons and ligaments. This is actually why we advise plantar fasciitis sufferers to treat themselves with a Plantar TShellz Wrap first thing in the morning before walking (walking stresses the plantar ligament on the bottom of the foot). After treatment, the plantar ligament is more flexible and can handle higher walking stresses before it starts to micro-tear. The ability for soft tissue to stretch further before micro-tearing will allow you to gently stretch your recovering joint without re-injuring it yet again. This is a huge boon for recovery. We also highly advise the TShellz Wrap it for post surgery recovery, as surgery will always introduce scar tissue and TShellz Wrap treatments in post-op recovery will reduce scar tissue growth, increase joint flexibility and get you back on your feet faster.

During your recovery, you may have to modify and/or eliminate any activities that cause pain or discomfort in your lower leg until your pain and inflammation settle, and you gain more mobility and strength. The more diligent you are with your treatment and rehabilitation, the faster you will see successful results!

Remember: We recommend that you consult your doctor and/or physiotherapist before using any of our outstanding products, to make sure they're right for you and your condition.

Physical Therapist Visits

PT is a beneficial way to help decrease pain in the soft tissues, restore atrophied muscles and improve ankle strength and mobility. The type of PT and the duration will be dependent on your injury.

Once your pain starts to diminish, a physiotherapist can set up an individualized achilles strengthening and stretching exercise program for you to perform at home or in the gym. This will be based on your needs and abilities, and will help you return to performing your normal routines.

Individuals will often try stretching and leg workouts on their own, to try and build up their strength. However, in doing so, they can do more damage to their achilles. It is extremely important to strengthen your muscles properly, as they may have weakened during the period of non-use. A trained therapist will help to ensure your rehabilitation process is effective. For fast and effective results, use a Cold Compress or Ice Pack and an Achilles TShellz Wrap® in conjunction with PT and an exercise program.

Anti-Inflammatory Medication

NSAIDs (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can be used if required to help manage your pain and inflammation. However, these aren't recommended for long term use, as they can cause gastrointestinal difficulties. Some health professionals have also recommended natural supplements such as glucosamine, MSM or hyaluronic acid to help strengthen the injured tissue.

In many cases of soft tissue injury, the use of a Cold Compress or Ice Pack can greatly reduce the need for NSAIDs. Cold compression is a natural, less harmful way to reduce your pain and inflammation.

If pain and inflammation persist, you can see your physician to investigate injections or topical medications, which may help reduce swelling and inflammation. Your physician will determine whether this is worthwhile on a case-by-case basis.


Achilles Post-Surgery

Doctors and Surgeons are always improving the techniques used in surgery, and results from surgery now are much more positive than they were in the past. However, all surgeries introduce scar tissue, and recovery from surgery is better than ever but often disappointing when it comes to full recovery expectations.

If you do wind up getting surgery, know that rehabilitation at-home while attending regular PT or doctor appointments is vital for your overall recovery.

achilles T•Shellz Wrap

Consistent exercise and conservative treatment on a daily basis during your rehabilitation while working with your doctor or PT is key. This is why we feel you should consider adding the TShellz Wrap® to your home recovery regimen once you are approved for PT.

The more consistent you work at enhancing blood flow to surgically repaired soft tissue, the more consistent the healing process will be. Nourishing the tissues will more oxygen and nutrients (which are carried through the blood stream) will give the body a better ability to produce new, healthy collagen. In effect, you will help the body produce stronger tissues while potentially reducing the number of setbacks that can occur following surgical procedures.

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The Key Points To Keep in Mind When Treating Your Injury

Make Sure That Complete Healing is Your #1 Goal

achilles T•Shellz Wrap x-ray lower leg

We all know that if the injury was healed, the pain would go away but what about the opposite situation? If the pain is gone, does that mean the injury is better? Unfortunately, this is not always true.

Too many people only focus on suppressing pain symptoms while providing less attention to the true healing aspects of the body. Experiencing less pain, while obviously a good short-term goal, does not equate to underlying healing. Scar tissue can remain for months after one gets to a point of being relatively pain-free. However, as long the weak and brittle scar tissue remains, you are susceptible to re-injury or re-aggravation. Certain motions or movements can cause the weaker tissue to easily tear - resulting in some reversal of the recovery up until that point.

This is why we recommend for people to continue with their doctor recommended exercises and to continue with mild treatments of the TShellz Wrap® for a period of time - to better ensure complete recovery.

Ongoing treatments to enhance circulation are intended to soothe, relax and promote healing of damaged soft tissue in the application area. T•Shellz treatment also results in the ability of soft tissue to extend further due to the effect of heat on soft tissue. The more extensible your tissues are, the less likely they are to strain or sprain.

Resting Your Ankle/Achilles Will Help, But Only Temporarily

People tell us all the time, "I was told that if I stay off my feet for a few weeks, my pain will disappear for good."

The truth is, tendonitis pain is usually a culmination of numerous factors, such as repetitive stress, poor posture, acute injuries, and overcompensation issues resulting from other muscle and soft tissue ailments.

To really deal with a injury, you have to know what the injury is - so get to the doctor and find out the source of the problem.

Soft tissue damage in the lower leg and ankle is typically a result of a tear or strain in your muscle, tendon or ligament. Tendonitis, tendinopathy, tendinosis, tenosynovitis, nerve impingement, general ankle instability, calf muscle spasms, heel bursitis, capsulitis, pain associated with trigger points, scar tissue, and arthritis are not uncommon issues in the lower leg and foot, perhaps especially due to the enormous stresses caused by support the body's weight day in and day out. When dealing with arthritis and/or gout, soft tissue damage would be considered a secondary effect due to the underlying disease; in such cases, soft tissue pain and inflammation can be temporarily alleviated, but until the underlying cause is dealt with, the soft tissue damage will most likely return.

It may take weeks or months for these pain triggers to surface. When they , however, merely resting will solve the underlying issues. You need to utilize actions and options that actually treat the source of the pain and help reverse the damage that has been done.

Resting has a role to play, but it is only one small factor in a recovery plan.

We Can Get You Started For Less Than The Cost Of A Few Clinic Visits


The Next Step Is Up To You!

Living with pain is never easy as it affects your entire lifestyle. Nothing is more important than making the proper decision when it comes to treating your muscle injury. Most methods only mask the problems or provide temporary relief; they do not treat the pain at its source.

AidMyAchilles stands out in this regard as our goal is to help you heal for the longer-term.

The bottom line is, you are welcome to try our products for a full 2 months. If you do not receive the benefits that others have experienced, simply return your purchase back to us and we will issue a prompt & full refund. There will be no hard feelings.

The fastest option you have to get our product into your hands as soon as possible is by placing your order online - at this very moment..

order our pain products securely on-line

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If you choose to order through our online shop, know that we keep no credit card data on file. Once the transaction is completed, the credit information disappears from our internal systems.

As you can see, ordering from us is a very easy and safe process, no matter if choosing to order on-line or over the phone.

order our pain products securely on-line

AidMyAchilles advisors do not work on commission, so be assured you will only receive fair and objective information.

During your recovery, you will probably have to modify and/or eliminate any activities that cause pain or discomfort in your Achilles tendon until your pain and inflammation settle.

Always consult your doctor before using any of our outstanding products, to make sure they're right for you and your condition.


Learn More About Achilles Injuries & Treatments

I want to learn more about Achilles Surgery & Post-Surgery Recovery

I want to learn more about Circulation Boost

I want to learn more about Ice & Heat: Which Is Better For The Achilles?

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During your recovery, you will probably have to modify and/or eliminate any activities that cause pain or discomfort at the location of your soft tissue injury until the pain and inflammation settle. The more diligent you are with your treatment and rehabilitation, the faster you will see successful results!

 
 
 

Achilles Tendon Facts

There are over 250,000 achilles tendon injuries each year in the US.


Achilles tendon ruptures are common in people between the ages of 30 and 50.


In runners, too rapid an increase in mileage, hill training without proper strengthening, and recent or inadequate changes to running gear can cause injuries to the Achilles tendon.


Achilles tendonitis accounts for an estimated 11% of running injuries.


3-5% of athletes are forced to leave their sports career due to Achilles tendon overuse injuries that go untreated.


Medications mask the pain but do very little in the healing of Achilles tendonitis.


A fully ruptured tendon REQUIRES surgery. It will not heal on its own.


Achilles tendonitis and Achilles tendinitis are the same thing.


Continually using your Achilles tendon while it is injured will lead to a more serious and/or chronic injury.


 


Specialist Bursa Pain Treatment Options

Advanced relief from intermetatarsal bursitis, sesamoiditis, metatarsalpholangeal bursitis

Orthopaedic Knee Pillow for Sleeping

MendMeShop Arnica Pain Relief Cream

Copper infused, antibacterial compression wrap ankle, achilles compress wrap

Compression Support Socks, Leg and Calf Support

soft tissue therapy for torn or damaged achilles tendon

Mendmeshop Muscle Rub Stick

Mendmeshop Customer Service for Chronic Bursa Problem Treatment Recommendations