Tendinopathy: Achilles and Patella Tendon Programming

*Continued from part three:

Achilles Tendon Programming

You should approach Achilles tendon programming in one to four weeks per stage, depending on the severity of the tendinopathy and the patient’s goals:

Stage One

Stay away from dorsiflexed (DF)positions. Always check your 24-hour response!

Two-leg (2L) calf raise – start with body weight (BW), then progress to adding load.
Five reps isometric hold for 45 seconds – Smith machine is a great tool.
Start just above the neutral ankle and progress to full plantar flexion (PF).
Progress to single-leg (SL) and repeat the process.

Stage Two

Start to enter DF positions, adding compression load. Check 24-hour response!

2L calf raise using a step to add DF angle.
Five reps – 10 seconds concentric starting in full DF, five-second hold isometric in full PF, followed by 10 seconds eccentric back to full DF. Again, Smith machine is a great tool.
Progress by reducing the tempo in order to make the movement faster over time.
Start with low weight and progressively add weight.
Progress to single-leg and repeat the process.