Different massage techniques can be applied to treat Achilles tendon complaints. Here are the most common:

1. Self-treatment: Achilles tendon massage with FALKE Achilles socks
2. Self-treatment: Achilles tendon massage with an electric toothbrush
3. Physiotherapist: soft tissue mobilization
4. Physiotherapist: friction massage

Achilles tendon massage generally aims to do the following:

Boost circulation: increased blood flow always means a better metabolism and so improved recovery of the strained Achilles tendon. In addition, an improved metabolism is very important for the regeneration process of the Achilles tendon, that is, the ‘proliferation’ and ‘remodeling’ healing phases.

Break down adhesions: adhesions may occur in the tendon and surrounding tissue. They reduce the elasticity and in turn the functionality of the Achilles tendon. Massage is also suitable for breaking them down.

Reduce pain: pain can be reduced by massaging the Achilles tendon and surrounding tissue. The concept behind this is referred to as the gate control theory. This inhibits the transmission of pain so that the feeling reaching the brain is less intense.

The FALKE Achilles sock works in a similar way to a friction massage. The built-in silicon pyramids along the Achilles tendon massage the tissue and boost circulation.

Achilles tendon massage to go!

What’s great about this is that you can take it with you, so your Achilles tendon is massaged as you do sport! FALKE Achilles socks replace your normal sports socks and can be worn in any sports shoes, that is, in any flat sports shoes.

Here’s an interesting insider tip for self-treatment:

Brush the area to the left and right of the Achilles tendon with an electric toothbrush. This will give you a pleasant massage with many small stimuli. Another advantage of the electric toothbrush is that its vibrations calm the pain cells, making it a great home pain treatment!

Note: this massage technique should only be carried out by an experienced physiotherapist or osteopath. However, once your therapist has shown you the technique, you can also do it yourself at home.

• Mobilization of all foot joints: upper and lower ankle joint, toe joints, heel and forefoot mobility.
• Stretching the ligaments and tendons: Achilles tendon, inner and outer tendons of the ankle joint, sole of the foot and toe joint ligaments.

Although friction massage is a successful form of Achilles tendon treatment, it is very rarely used as massage must be carried out practically every day to achieve good results. However, this is usually impossible to arrange.

• Tissue adhesions around the Achilles tendon and in the tendon itself asking for this treatment.