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Achilles Tendon Pain / Tendinitis​

 

The Achilles tendon is the largest and most powerful in the human body. It connects the rear of the heel to the two calf muscles. The capacity to get up onto our feet is provided by this tendon, and its function is critical in walking and running. During sports and training, forces up to twelve times our body weight are exerted.

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The inflammation induced by tight and strained calf muscles can subsequently transfer too much stress from walking or running to the Achilles tendons and ankle, causing Achilles tendonitis. The tendon becomes irritated and inflamed, and scar tissue can form, which is stiffer and tougher than the tendon itself. Achilles tendinopathy can range in severity from a minor ache while walking to a more severe ache caused by tears or rupture.

GIrl Running

Cause

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  • Overuse and ongoing tension and strain on the Achilles tendons are common causes of Achilles tendonitis.

  • Incorrect calf muscle stretching

  • Hill running, running on sand or very soft terrain, and speed and agility training are all activities that put a lot of stress on the Achilles tendons, frequently more than other types of running, and can lead to Achilles tendonitis.

  • Ankle over pronation (foot rolls too far inward) when walking or jogging

 

Symptoms

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The following are possible signs and symptoms:

  • Sharp or dull pain along the tendon's length, which may be increased by rest or heavy exercise

  • Scar tissue along the tendon's border

  • Swelling and redness above the heel bone

  • Ankle mobility may be hampered.

  • Aches and pains when jogging for longer periods of time 

Hiking Boots

Treatment

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It is critical to treat Achilles Tendonitis as soon as possible, to avoid a more serious injury and to begin a treatment program.

Prior to engaging in any training or exercise, it is critical that the Achilles is pain-free, and we advocate a staged return to walking and then running during our treatment regimen.

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It's crucial to stretch your calves adequately to avoid Achilles tendonitis. Other vital considerations include wearing the proper footwear, supporting the arches and ankles, and performing calf-strengthening activities.

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Our treatment consists of:

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  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) – assist decrease pain and inflammation. 

  • Rest Ice and elevation–twenty-five minutes every two hours is recommended in the first forty-eight hours following the injury.

  • Stretching and exercise programs are suggested to assist improve the range of motion, mobility, and stability of the foot and ankle joints.

  • To alleviate biomechanical abnormalities and reduce the strain on the Achilles Tendon, custom foot orthotics may be recommended.

  • Steroid injections may be used to relieve discomfort and to speed up the healing process.

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