MD Podiatrist Discusses How A Rearfoot Rocker Helps Treat Achilles Tendinitis

“Achilles tendinitis is a debilitating condition,” said Dan Michaels, DPM. The Achilles tendon is a band of tissue that connects the calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to the heel. When it is inflamed, the pain can range from a mild ache to a more severe burning.

Finding the right shoe is one part of the solution. “Some shoe features will improve gait mechanics and can reduce the unnecessary strain and stress occurring on the tendon,” said  Dr. Michaels. “A rearfoot rocker takes some of the load off the Achilles tendon via ankle plantarflexion and dorsiflexion, while the combination of the rearfoot and forefoot rocker places less demand on the lower extremity performing that motion,” said Dr. Michaels.