Pain in the lower portion of the leg can be caused by a number of things, but if it's along the back of the calf or closer to the back of the ankle, it may be your Achilles tendon. If you notice swelling or have pain when you touch this area, you may have a strain or could have stretched your Achilles tendon. If you are unable to walk due to this pain or cannot put any weight on the leg, it could be a tear or a rupture which will require surgery. Read on for what you can do to alleviate Achilles pain if you have a stretch or a strained tendon.
Rest
If you are feeling pain, don't try to overdo it. Rest your leg and focus on relaxing your leg, even elevating it to help reduce any swelling associated with the strain/stretch. Sit on the couch or in a chair and put your leg up with a towel or a soft blanket beneath it. Keep your leg higher than your heart to reduce the swelling and to promote healthy blood flow.
Ice
Get an ice pack and ice your leg where you are feeling pain. Wrap the ice pack in a towel to prevent causing freeze burns to your leg. Keep the ice pack on your leg for at least 20 minutes. This will help reduce your pain and can reduce swelling as well.
Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is a good over-the-counter pain reliever that you can use. Follow the instructions and don't take more per day than instructed. Ibuprofen is a safe way to alleviate pain without worry about using harsh painkillers.
Massage
Massaging the leg is a good way to reduce swelling and reduce pain as you are massaging to promote blood circulation, which is effective in reducing swelling as well. Be gentle in your massage to prevent injuring your tendon further. Use your thumbs and massage in a circular motion applying gentle pressure to the affected area.
Proper Footwear
Wear proper footwear to prevent further strain of your Achilles tendon. Your shoes should be supportive all over the foot, including in the heel and the arch of the foot. If your shoes don't offer enough support, use inserts to help give you the cushion and support needed to prevent foot injuries or strains, and to prevent further injury to your Achilles tendon.
If you have Achilles pain and it isn't a rupture or a tear, visit an urgent care facility like Meadowbrook Urgent Care for an x-ray and for treatment options.
Share4 December 2018
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