Category: Injury Massage

Insertional Achilles Tendinitis

Insertional Achilles Tendinitis

Insertional Achilles tendinitis involves the lower portion of the heel, where the tendon attaches (inserts) to the heel bone. In both non insertional and insertional Achilles tendinitis, damaged tendon fibers may also calcify (harden). Bone spurs (extra bone growth) often form with insertional Achilles tendinitis. Insertional Achilles Tendinitis is pain and inflammation at the insertion of the Achilles Tendon on the heel bone. It is often associated with swelling, redness, and calcium buildup (small bump) located at the back of the heel (see picture). Pressure at the back of the heel tends to be sensitive and painful. In the clinic, some of my clients often report that certain tight shoes might cause more pain in this area from the pressure and have to sometimes resort to open back shoes.  

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Massage for Muscle Pulls & Strains

Massage for Muscle Pulls & Strains

A muscle strain, or pulled muscle, occurs when your muscle is overstretched or torn. This usually occurs as a result of fatigue, overuse, or improper use of a muscle. Strains can happen in any muscle, but they’re most common in your lower back, neck, shoulder, and hamstring, which is the muscle behind your thigh.

These strains can cause pain and may limit movement within the affected muscle group. Mild to moderate strains can be successfully treated at home with ice, heat, and anti-inflammatory medications. Severe strains or tears may require medical treatment.

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Leg Pain Facts

Leg Pain Facts

Characterized by aches, numbness, tingling, burning, or weakness, leg pain quite often is not caused by a problem in the leg or foot, but rather by a condition in the lower back. In fact, with many low back problems, there is actually little or no low back pain.

Compression or pressure on any of the nerve roots in the low back can cause pain, numbness, or weakness along the different nerves as they travel down through the leg and into the foot. Because the sciatic nerve is commonly affected, leg pain and related symptoms are often generally referred to as sciatica, although medical professionals prefer the term radiculopathy.

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