In the realm of sports and physical activity, injuries are an unfortunate reality. Among the various treatments available, the Night Wrap stands out as a straightforward, at-home method to alleviate inflammation and promote healing, especially for conditions like tendinopathy or bursitis.
If you’re dealing with pain and stiffness in your tendon or struggling with early-stage tendon inflammation such as Achilles tendinopathy, the Night Wrap may be a helpful part of your recovery. It’s simple, safe, and can be done at home while you sleep. At Good Physio, we often recommend this technique as a short-term solution for easing tendon pain—especially during those inflamed, uncomfortable early phases.
What is the night wrap?
The Night Wrap is an overnight treatment that combines topical anti-inflammatory and anti-coagulation agents to reduce swelling, bruising, and the creaky sensation known as crepitus. It’s particularly effective for acute injuries with visible inflammation.
Who is it for?
This method is particularly helpful for patients with:
- Achilles tendinopathy (especially reactive or early-phase)
- Tennis elbow
- Patellar tendinopathy
- Any tendon pain with inflammation, swelling, or bruising
If you look for further information about tendon pain (or tendinopathy), Check out the previous post: Tendinopathy: Understanding Tendon Pain and What You Can Do About It
Materials Needed:
- Diclofenac gel (e.g., Voltaren)
- Hirudoid cream
- Gauze
- Cling film (plastic wrap)
Application Steps:
- Evening Preparation: Before bedtime, gently massage equal parts of Diclofenac gel and Hirudoid cream into the affected area for 2-3 minutes until absorbed.
- Layering: Apply a thicker layer of the mixture onto the skin without massaging it in.
- Wrapping: Place a gauze on the top of the cream mixture and cover the area with cling film to hold the creams in place.
- Overnight Rest: Leave the wrap on overnight, allowing the medications to work while you sleep.
- Morning Routine: Remove the wrap in the morning and clean the area.
How It Works:
The combination of Diclofenac and Hirudoid provides a sustained anti-inflammatory effect, reducing swelling and promoting blood flow. The cling film ensures prolonged contact with the skin, enhancing absorption.
Together, they can:
- Ease pain during the night and early morning
- Improve circulation around the tendon
- Support the body’s natural healing processes
When to Use (And When Not To)
Good for:
- New or reactive tendinopathy
- Visible swelling or tenderness
- As part of a broader tendon rehab plan
Avoid if:
- You have broken skin or irritation
- You’re in the chronic/degenerative phase without inflammation
- You’re allergic to any ingredients
- You’re unsure if your pain is tendon-related — check with a physio first
Important Notes from Good Physio:
- The Night Wrap is not a cure, but it can reduce pain enough to help you move and sleep better while you start your exercise-based rehab.
- Always pair this with physio-guided tendon loading exercises for long-term recovery.
- If symptoms persist or worsen, get a proper assessment—Achilles tendinopathy responds best when caught early.
Final Thoughts
Tendon pain can be frustrating—but simple steps like the Night Wrap can offer real relief, especially during painful flare-ups. If you’re in Auckland and looking for support with Achilles pain or other tendon issues, we’re here to help. At Good Physio, we’ll guide you through every step of your recovery—starting with the right diagnosis, and finishing with long-term strength and confidence in your body.