Best Physical Therapy Near Me in Union NJ

Twin Boro Physical Therapy in Union, New Jersey, is conveniently located to offer affordable, accessible, and high-quality care “near me” for Union, New Jersey, residents. 

At Twin Boro Physical Therapy, many of our trained physical therapists, occupational therapists, and certified hand therapists have over 25 years of experience. This experience, combined with a dedication to life-long learning, sets our patient results apart. While we offer services to many patients outside of these categories, the majority of our patients benefit from the following services at each of our locations:

• Arthritis Rehabilitation
• Geriatric Rehab
• Hand Therapy
• Neurological Rehabilitation
• Physical Therapy
• Spinal Orthopaedic Rehab
• Sports Rehab / Physical Therapy
• TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder)
• Vestibular Rehabilitation
• Workers’ Compensation

Eccentric strength training for Achilles tendonitis

Eccentric strength exercises are movements that build muscular strength by applying tension to the muscle as it lengthens. This is commonly used in physical therapy to relieve pain in the mid-portion of the Achilles tendon in patients with Achilles tendonitis. 

While it is not fully understood why eccentric strength training is effective for Achilles tendonitis, some researchers hypothesize that it works by placing a load on the Achilles that allows the tendon to gradually adapt to everyday strains along the length of the Achilles tendon. Another theory is that eccentric exercises help to relieve pain by altering the stiffness and flexibility of the tendon. Eccentric strength training also lessens stress on the calf muscles, which may in turn reduce the direct strain on the Achilles tendon.

While your physical therapist will go over exercises designed for you, two common eccentric strength training exercises for Achilles tendonitis include:

Gastrocnemius Heel Raises

When aiming to strengthen the gastrocnemius muscle through eccentric muscle strengthening, heel raises are a powerful exercise. To perform this, complete the following:

1. Stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart. Place your hand for stability on a chair, wall, or table in front of you.
2. Keep the knees straight and press through the toes to lift the heels off of the ground.
3. If able, lift the uninjured foot so that you are solely relying on the injured foot to support your weight. 
4. Slowly raise and lower the heel of the affected foot.
5. Complete three sets of up to 15 lifts 1-2 times per day.

Soleus Heel Raises

The Soleus muscle is another important muscle to target through eccentric strength training. To perform this, complete the following:

1. Stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart. Place your hand for stability on a chair, wall, or table in front of you.
2. Keep the knees slightly bent and press through the toes to lift the heels off of the ground.
3. If able, lift the uninjured foot so that you are solely relying on the injured foot to support your weight. 
4. Slowly raise and lower the heel of the affected foot, keeping the knee bent.
5. Complete three sets of up to 15 lifts 1-2 times per day.

Connect with us today!

Don’t hesitate to begin your journey to improved health. At Twin Boro Physical Therapy in Union, we have a community of motivated patients and professionals who are dedicated to achieving their best selves. To get started “near me”, contact our office by calling 908.663.8050 or visiting our website.