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Stop Stretching Insertional Achilles Pain: The New RCT Data That Changes Everything

New BJSM data shows LTCR is significantly better for Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy. Stop the step drops and aggressive stretching. Learn the evidence-based protocol (Eval, Reset, Stabilize) that gets 95% patient satisfaction and higher return to sport.

Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy - Dr. E Infographic
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Modern Manual Therapy

Stop Stretching
Insertional Achilles Pain

New Evidence: "Compression is the Enemy of the Insertion"

The Research Update (2025)

Pringels et al. (BJSM, 2025) conducted a randomized clinical trial (n=42) comparing Low Tendon Compression Rehab (LTCR) vs. Standard High Compression loading.

The 12-Week Results

Patient Satisfaction

0%

Low Compression

vs
0%

Standard Care

Return to Sport

0%

Low Compression

vs
0%

Standard Care

Structural Change Only the Low Compression group showed reduced tendon thickness.
VISA-A Scores +12.9 points greater improvement than standard care.

The 4-Stage Protocol

1
Isometrics (Neutral Ankle)
2
Isotonics (Floor based)
3
Energy Storage (Plyos)
4
Return to Sport (Running)

High Compression (Stop)

  • Deep dorsiflexion loading (Step Drops) compresses the insertion.
  • Aggressive Calf Stretching exacerbates pain.
  • Outcome: Lower satisfaction, less structural healing.

Low Compression (Go)

  • Heel Raises from Floor: Load tendon tensile strength without compression.
  • Shoe Modifications: Use heel lifts to offload in daily life.
  • Outcome: Better function, pain relief, and tendon remodeling.

💡 Dr. E's Clinical Pearl

"If it's Insertional, treat it like a bone stress injury at the attachment. Don't stretch it. Load it progressively without compression."

Learn my system to treat most conditions from head to toe

Eval, Reset, and Stabilize. Earn CEUs and get unlimited access to the Flagship Course.

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Reference:
Pringels, L., Capelleman, R., Van den Abeele, A., Burssens, A., Planckaert, G., Wezenbeek, E., & Vanden Bossche, L. (2025). Effectiveness of reducing tendon compression in the rehabilitation of insertional Achilles tendinopathy: A randomised clinical trial. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 59(9), 640–650. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2024-109138

ModernManualTherapy © 2025

Learn my full Eval, Reset, and Stabilize system and how to easily assess and treat most conditions from head to toe!

Seminario en línea sobre terapia manual moderna: el enfoque ecléctico para la evaluación y el tratamiento de la calidad de la audición y la calidad de la voz

Seminario en línea sobre terapia manual moderna: el enfoque ecléctico para la evaluación y el tratamiento de la calidad de la audición y la calidad de la voz

5.0

My easy to learn system will get you fast results! Get unlimited access and earn CEUs.

 


 

The course will cover:

  • The principles of Eval, Reset, and Stabilize

  • Movement Screen and Repeated Motions based evaluation

  • Neurodynamic testing ­ median, radial, ulnar nerves and sciatic and femoral nerves

  • Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Massage (IASTM) with the EDGE Tool

  • Neurodynamic treatment

  • Functional mobilization of the hip, knee, and ankle

  • Home exercises, repeated motions based resets and using the EDGE Mobility Bands

  • An emphasis on patient education and self treatment

Note: this course is fully online and is digital only like all our media. Upon purchase you will immediately receive instructions on how to watch and get your handouts to follow along. 



Retail Price:

$ 399.99

Your Price:

$ 199.99

You Save:

$ 200.00
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