The Alfredson protocol is a treatment forAchillestendonitis that involves repeated eccentric heel drop exercises.
It is widely regarded as the gold standard for treating Achilles tendonitis.
You should feel mild to moderate pain while doing them, but it should never be sharp or unbearable.
Verywell / Laura Porter
Verywell / Laura Porter
What Is the Alfredson Protocol?
This means thegastrocnemiusandsoleusmuscles in the calf are active while under tension.
Pain is an important part of this treatment.
The pain should never be sharp or unbearable.
While this regimen is still commonly used, yourphysical therapistmay adjust it to better suit your specific condition.
They can let you know if it’s safe to try them.
Do both exercises twice a day.
Resistance can come in several forms:
Only add resistance if your physical therapist gives you approval.
Your calf muscles might hurt, too.
Mild to moderate pain while doing these exercises is a good sign they’re working.
The pain should be dull, not sharp.
If the pain becomes too much to continue, stop what you’re doing and rest.
The Alfredson protocol is not meant to cause unbearable pain.
Research suggests that a “do as much as tolerated” approach can be just as effective.
Ask your physical therapist about when you’ll be ready to start doing things likegoing for a run.
If that feels like too much, ask your physical therapist if a modified version is right for you.
2014;44(2):59-67. doi:10.2519/jospt.2014.4720
