Achilles tendonitis is an overuse injury involving inflammation of the Achilles tendon—the strong, fibrous tissue that connects the calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) to the heel bone (calcaneus). This condition often arises from repetitive stress, improper footwear, poor ankle mobility, or a sudden increase in physical activity.
Core Treatment Goals
Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, improving mobility, and promoting tissue repair. Acupuncture is one of the most effective, non-invasive treatments available. Acupuncture points are needles along the calf, ankle, and foot to help relieve pain, reduce swelling, and improve circulation in the affected area. We also address imbalances higher up the kinetic chain, such as tight hamstrings or glutes, which may contribute to strain on the Achilles tendon.
Key Muscles Treated for Achilles Tendonitis
Several specific muscles can be treated for Achilles tendonitis to reduce strain on the tendon, improve biomechanics, and support healing. These muscles include:
- Gastrocnemius – The larger, outer calf muscle. Tightness or trigger points here can directly increase tension on the Achilles tendon.
- Soleus – Located beneath the gastrocnemius, the soleus is especially active during walking and standing. Dysfunction here can contribute to chronic tendon stress.
- Tibialis Posterior – Supports the arch and stabilizes the ankle. Weakness or tightness can shift the load to the Achilles.
- Peroneal Muscles (longus and brevis) – These lateral calf muscles help with ankle stability. Imbalance can alter gait and stress the Achilles.
- Flexor Hallucis Longus – Runs along the inside of the ankle and aids in toe-off during walking or running. Dysfunction may overload the Achilles tendon.
- Hamstrings (biceps femoris, semimembranosus, semitendinosus) – Tight hamstrings can alter gait mechanics and increase stress on the lower leg and heel.
- Gluteus Medius & Gluteus Maximus – Weakness here can cause poor hip stability, affecting stride and overloading the calf and Achilles.
- Quadratus Plantae & Intrinsic Foot Muscles – Weak or imbalanced foot muscles can reduce shock absorption and create compensatory tension in the calf and tendons.
How Acupuncture Targets Dysfunction
In acupuncture treatment, these muscles are assessed for dysfunction and treated with techniques like acupoint stimulation, electro-acupuncture, or manual therapy to improve function, reduce compensatory stress, and support tendon healing.
Complementary Therapies for Achilles Tendonitis
In addition to acupuncture, treatment often includes:
- Cupping therapy is used to loosen tight calf muscles and increase blood flow.
- Gua sha (instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization) to break down fascial restrictions.
- Electro-acupuncture enhances stimulation and accelerates healing in chronic or stubborn cases.
- Tui na (Chinese medical massage) to restore ankle joint and surrounding muscle mobility.
- Rehabilitative exercises focused on eccentric strengthening of the calf and proprioceptive training for ankle stability.
Expected Timeline & Home Care
Most patients begin to feel relief within 4–6 sessions, though chronic cases, depending on severity, may require ongoing care over 8–12 weeks. Home care includes stretching, ice application, supportive footwear, and activity modification.
Conclusion
Combining targeted techniques with a personalized care plan, acupuncture offers a comprehensive approach to treating Achilles tendonitis and restoring pain-free movement. Schedule a consultation with CSC+M’s NYC acupuncturist and start a personalized treatment plan to reduce inflammation, restore mobility, and get you moving pain-free.
