5 Natural Remedies For Achilles Tendonitis

Beyond applying these natural remedies, to alleviate the discomfort caused by Achilles tendonitis it is also essential to rest to promote recovery

Achilles tendonitis, also called Achilles tendonitis, is an injury caused by overuse of the Achilles tendon  that connects the calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to the heel bone.

As reported by the Mayo Clinic Organization, its appearance is associated with sudden increases in the intensity of physical activity but could also occur due to repetitive movements or lack of previous stretching.

Not all injuries are the same or have the same degree of severity. Therefore, you should always go to a specialist to treat them. Apart from that, to help in the improvement, some home care and remedies could also be applied.

Therefore, below we will review some of its main causes as well as some home treatments to help your recovery. Keep reading!

Causes and symptoms of Achilles tendonitis

Causes

Achilles tendonitis occurs when the Achilles tendon becomes irritated due to overuse. This tendon is used when walking, running, jumping, or standing on your toes.

Some risk factors explained by the World Health Organization for this problem are:

• Have a flat arch foot.
• Running in worn or inappropriate footwear.
• Running on hard surfaces, like concrete.
• Playing sports that involve jumping a lot.

Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis

Pain experienced due to Achilles tendonitis appears in the back of the leg or above the ankle. Often times, this discomfort can manifest itself after running or playing sports. The tendon may even become a little swollen.

5 natural remedies to relieve Achilles tendonitis

As we have said before, not all cases of Achilles tendonitis are the same. For this reason, it is always recommended to go to a specialist to take the appropriate measures. In addition, there are some natural remedies to help relieve tendonitis that you can complement with their recommendation. 

1. Coarse salt and vinegar

First, we started with a relaxing remedy that could help decrease tendon inflammation to speed up the recovery process from Achilles tendonitis. This is due to vinegar, which according to this study by the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, is a powerful anti-inflammatory.

Ingredients

• 3 cups of water (750 ml).
• 3 tablespoons of coarse salt (45 g).
• ½ cup of apple cider vinegar (125 ml).

Preparation

• First, heat the cups of water and, without letting them boil, add them to a bowl.
• Next, add the coarse salt and apple cider vinegar, and mix them to dilute.

How to use

• First, dip your feet into the container, making sure to cover the affected area.

• Afterwards, let it act for 20 minutes and dry carefully.
• Use it every day until you notice an improvement.

2. Castor oil and olive oil

Castor oil and olive oil therapy would also be a traditional remedy for tendonitis. Thus, its direct application reduces inflammation and calms the sensation of stiffness and pain. This is confirmed by this study carried out by the Brazilian Institute of Cardiology and this investigation carried out by the Menarini Ricerche spa (Italy).

Ingredients

• 5 tablespoons of castor oil (75 g).
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil (48 g).

Preparation

• Combine the oils and heat for 20 seconds in the microwave.

Application mode

• First, check that the temperature is suitable for use and rub it carefully on the affected areas.
• Leave it to act without rinsing and repeat the massage 2 times a day.

3. Turmeric

According to this study by Central Michigan University, turmeric  acts as a powerful pain reliever and anti-inflammatory capable of reducing the symptoms of Achilles tendonitis.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons of turmeric powder (45 g).
• Water (as necessary).

Preparation

• Moisten the turmeric with a little water, until you get a thick paste.

Application mode

• First, spread the remedy over the affected area and cover it with a bandage.
• Finally, let it act overnight and change it the next morning.

4. Ginger

Ginger root could be a powerful natural anti-inflammatory that would help control pain and swelling caused by this condition.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon of ginger (5 g).
• 1 cup of water (250 ml).

Preparation

• Pour the ginger into a cup of boiling water and cover the drink.
• Let it sit for 10 minutes.
• Finally, strain it and you will have it ready.

Consumption mode

• Drink the infusion 2 or 3 times a day.

5. Aloe vera and peppermint oil

This remedy is refreshing and anti-inflammatory (according to this study carried out by Qassim University) and serves to promote the relief of irritation of the Achilles tendon. Likewise, its direct application relaxes the inflamed tendon and improves mobility.

Ingredients

• 5 tablespoons of aloe vera gel (75 g).
• 1 teaspoon of peppermint oil (5 g).

Preparation

• Combine the tablespoons of aloe vera gel with the peppermint oil.

Application mode

• Just spread the remedy over the affected area and cover it with a bandage.

Remember that it is advisable to consult the doctor as soon as we feel discomfort. Likewise, these natural remedies could help alleviate discomfort but should always be complemented with the help of a specialist.