Wrap Protocol for Painful Achilles PeriTendonitis and Tendonitis
The Wrap Protocol for Achilles Tendonitis and Peritendonitis
What is it and who does it help?
This simple and effective wrap technique is designed to reduce inflammation and ease pain in irritated tendons—particularly those close to the skin. It’s something I often recommend to patients in clinic, especially when they’re dealing with:
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Achilles tendinopathy or peritendonitis
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Inflamed superficial tendons
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Peroneal tendon issues
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Tibialis posterior tendinopathy
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Flexor tendon pain
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Tibialis anterior tendon irritation
While the research on this method is limited, patient feedback has been consistently positive. I’ve seen great results in people with Achilles pain and other tendon conditions where localised inflammation is present.
What is the Night Wrap?
The night wrap works as a targeted topical anti-inflammatory treatment you apply before bed. It provides prolonged exposure—around 8 hours—of anti-inflammatory cream directly to the injured area, making it more effective than quick massage or daytime application alone.
One of the main benefits of this method is its topical delivery, which avoids the potential side effects of oral anti-inflammatory medication like stomach upset or liver stress.
⚠️ As always, if you're using any medicated creams or gels, check with your pharmacist or GP before use.
What You’ll Need
All items are available at most pharmacies:
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Cling wrap/Glad wrap
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Diclofenac gel (e.g., Voltaren)
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Hirudoid cream
Only use these specific products—other creams may not have the same effect.
How to Apply the Night Wrap
Here’s the step-by-step guide:
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Before bed, massage a small amount (about the size of a 20c–50c piece) of equal parts Diclofenac and Hirudoid into the painful area for 3–5 minutes, until mostly absorbed.
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Then apply a thicker layer of the same cream mix, gently rubbing it together, but don’t rub it all the way in—leave a visible layer sitting on the skin.
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Wrap the area loosely but securely with Glad Wrap to hold the cream in place and avoid transferring it to your sheets.
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Sleep with the wrap on overnight, or if that’s uncomfortable, try wearing it for a few hours in the evening while elevating your feet.
Why Hirudoid?
Hirudoid is particularly helpful if your tendon issue involves swelling, bruising, or crepitus (a crackling or creaking feeling around the tendon). It works by breaking down fibrin, a substance involved in inflammation and crepitus formation.
The wrap also helps reduce evaporation, improving the cream’s absorption and ensuring a more potent anti-inflammatory effect right where it’s needed.
A Few Notes:
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This approach works best for tendons close to the surface, like the Achilles or peroneals. It’s less effective for deeper structures.
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Results may vary, but many people report noticeable relief within a few nights.
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Always check for any skin reactions and discontinue if irritation occurs.
Need help with stubborn tendon pain? Our Port Macquarie clinic offers expert assessment and tailored treatment plans to get you moving again.