Summer often means getting back into physical activity: hiking, jogging, long walks, swimming, biking… but it also means switching up your footwear (flip-flops, flat sandals, going barefoot). This combination is a perfect recipe for triggering or aggravating Achilles tendonitis, especially if you’re not prepared.

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel. Subject to heavy strain with every step, it can become inflamed due to repeated microtrauma, particularly during intense physical activity, poor posture, or improper foot alignment. The result: heel pain, stiffness in the morning, discomfort when walking… all of which are warning signs.

Achilles tendinitis is common during or after vacations, when people tend to be more active. And you don’t have to be an athlete to suffer from it. A sudden return to physical activity or long walks on uneven terrain can be enough to trigger inflammation.

There are simple and effective solutions

Overpronation (when the foot rolls inward) or an imbalance in foot strike can place excessive strain on the Achilles tendon. These issues can be corrected with custom-made or off-the-shelf orthotic insoles, provided they are recommended by a healthcare professional, such as a pharmacist.

The production of custom orthotic insoles therefore makes it possible to:

· relieve pain by reducing tension on the tendon;

· prevent recurrence by correcting the movement or posture that caused the problem;

· continue walking or engaging in physical activity without aggravating the inflammation.

Worn daily in shoes, these insoles support the healing process and help ensure a safe return to physical activity.

Before you dive into your active vacation, take a moment to check your posture. Your Vistapod pharmacist can help!

Find the nearest pharmacy equipped with Vistapod by downloading the Vistapod app.

www.vistapod.eu/link

‍