The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body, joining the lower portion of the calf to the heel bone. Although it is able to withstand forces of around 1,000 pounds, it is the most frequently ruptured tendon in the body. Typically, injury of the Achilles tendon is caused by athletic activities. Sometimes the degeneration involves the site where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone. In rare cases, chronic degeneration with or without pain may result in rupture of the tendon.
One of the main causes of Achilles tendonitis is when patients don’t wear the proper footwear, causing over-pronation which can make the Achilles tendon more aggravated. Patients with excessive pronation tend to develop Achilles tendonitis more often than other patients. Changing your footwear can help prevent this injury from reoccurring in the future.
Symptoms:
- Tenderness
- Pain
- Aching
- Stiffness
- “Snapping” or “popping” in calf
Treatment options include immobilization such as resting and using a walking boot, icing to reduce swelling, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) and physical therapy. Attending physical therapy can help with strengthening exercises and stretches. Depending on the severity, this can result in a surgical treatment plan.
This information is provided by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.