Achilles Tendonitis Treatment in Sarasota: Lasting Relief
If you’ve ever felt a sharp ache or stiffness in the back of your ankle, especially first thing in the morning or after running, you may be dealing with Achilles tendonitis (more accurately called Achilles tendinopathy).
At Well Co Chiropractic, we help Sarasota athletes and active adults recover from Achilles pain using Active Release Technique (ART) and research-based rehab. Unlike quick fixes, this approach addresses the root cause so you can get back to running, tennis, pickleball, or training without fear of re-injury.
What Is Achilles Tendinopathy?
The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscles (gastroc/soleus) to your heel bone. It’s the largest tendon in the body and crucial for walking, running, and jumping.
Achilles tendon pain happens when the tendon becomes overloaded, not just inflamed. Over time, the tendon fibers can degenerate, leading to pain, thickening, and reduced strength.
There are two main types:
Insertional Achilles tendinopathy: pain where the tendon meets the heel (0–2 cm).
Mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy: pain a few centimeters above the heel (2–7 cm).
Why Sarasota Athletes Are at Risk
Runners: Up to 52% develop Achilles tendon symptoms during their lifetime.
Tennis & Pickleball players: Sudden sprints, lunges, and quick stops overload the tendon.
Gym training: Calf raises, plyometrics, and heavy lifting can irritate the tendon.
Everyday active adults: Even without sports, walking in sandals or standing long hours can trigger pain.
Evidence-Based Treatment for Achilles Tendonitis
Research is clear: “wait and see” does not work. Active treatment is needed.
The best strategies include:
Manual therapy (ART): Breaks down adhesions, restores tendon glide, and improves blood flow.
Calf strengthening: A progressive 12-week program reduces pain and improves function.
Load management: Reducing aggravating activity, then gradually reloading. Pain up to 5/10 during rehab is safe.
Sport-specific rehab: Modifying jumping, running, or lifting patterns until strength returns.
Other options like shockwave therapy or PRP injections show mixed evidence and are typically secondary to exercise and manual care.
Our Approach at Well Co Chiropractic
Comprehensive evaluation – identify if pain is insertional vs mid-portion.
Active Release Technique (ART) – reduce scar tissue and restore tendon mobility.
Progressive rehab program – calf strength, balance, and return-to-sport drills.
Education & prevention – training modifications, footwear guidance, and safe progression.
Recovery & Prognosis
Most athletes return to sport - 85% resume activity successfully.
Rehab takes months, not weeks - and rushing recovery increases recurrence.
Improvements typically begin around 12 weeks, but long-term follow-up is key.
Don’t Let Achilles Pain Hold You Back
Whether you’re running on Sarasota’s Legacy Trail, competing on the pickleball courts, or training in the gym, Achilles tendonitis doesn’t have to sideline you.
At Well Co Chiropractic, we combine Active Release Technique with evidence-based rehab to help you recover fully and prevent flare-ups.
