Dear Doc,
I am 38 and running my first marathon this month. I have been battling tendinosis in my Achilles for the last several months and now after long runs I have pain and discomfort. This is especially worse in the morning as I hobble in to work. I am concerned about my marathon! Are there any conservative treatments out there that can help me?
Sincerely limping,
J.R., Durham, N.C.
Dear J.R.,
Tendon healing can be complicated. As a physical therapist who works with runners, I often look at shoes and wear patterns, running mechanics, muscle imbalances, flexibility, and other factors that might be causing the injury or making it worse. These variables coupled with the training that goes into completing a marathon can stop your training in its tracks.
In physical therapy literature soft tissue mobilization, when combined with eccentric exercise and stretching, has been shown to help tendon healing. In my experience, Graston is an extremely effective soft tissue mobilization technique that helps athletes quickly return to competition. The instruments help find scar tissue more accurately than bare hands, which makes it a more effective treatment.
Graston technique decreases tightness, increases range of motion and flexibility, and assists tendon healing. The sooner a qualified practitioner can work on your tendinosis, the better.
Good luck grinding it out!
# # #
Shefali Christopher, PT, DPT, SCS, LAT, ATC, is a Graston-certified physical therapist with Proaxis Therapy in Durham and Carrboro. As an Ironman finisher and avid runner, she enjoys working with endurance athletes. In her spare time she has been spotted running alongside two dogs, pushing a jogging stroller, and carrying her weak husband on her back.
