Achilles tendonitis, more accurately known as Achilles tendonopathy, is a common condition characterized by inflammation, pain, or stiffness in the Achilles tendon. This tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and is crucial for activities like walking, running, and jumping. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments of Achilles tendonitis is essential for effective management and recovery.

Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis

The symptoms of Achilles tendonitis can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but common signs include:

1. Pain and stiffness: The most common symptom is pain along the back of the tendon, especially during physical activity or after prolonged periods of rest. The pain may range from mild discomfort to severe and debilitating.
2. Tenderness: The Achilles tendon may feel tender to the touch, and there might be swelling or thickening of the tendon.
3. Stiffness and limited range of motion: Some individuals may experience stiffness in the calf muscles or have difficulty flexing the foot, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
4. Gradual onset: Symptoms often develop gradually over time, rather than suddenly, although a more acute Achilles injuries do still occur.

Causes of Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis typically develops due to repetitive stress on the tendon, leading to micro-tears and inflammation. Some common causes include:

1. Overuse: Activities that involve repetitive or intense strain on the Achilles tendon, such as running, jumping, or sudden increases in physical activity, can lead to tendonitis.
2. Poor Footwear: Inadequate or improper footwear that doesn’t support the foot properly can contribute to the development of Achilles tendonitis.
3. Tight Muscles: Tight calf muscles or insufficient flexibility in the ankle joint can increase strain on the Achilles tendon during movement.
4. Biomechanical Issues: Structural abnormalities in the foot or ankle, such as flat feet or high arches, can predispose individuals to Achilles tendonitis.
5. Age and Activity Level: Tendonitis is more common in individuals over 30 years old, as tendons become less flexible with age. Additionally, sudden increases in physical activity can stress the tendon and lead to inflammation.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of Achilles tendonitis typically involves a physical examination by a Podiatrist or other healthcare professional. Imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential causes of pain.

The management of Achilles tendonopathy aims to reduce pain, promote healing, and prevent recurrence. Effective treatment strategies cannot be implemented until an all the contributing factors to the injury have been identified.

Booking a Biomechanical Assessment with one of our qualified Podiatrists will be a step in the right direction for your recovery and healing process.

During this 1-hour appointment, an assessment of your lower limbs will be carried out. This may include range motion and strength tests, pain assessments, and gait analysis – monitoring your lower back, knees, ankles, and feet, to confirm the diagnosis and establish the best treatment options.

Treatment strategies may include;

1. Rest and Activity Modification: Limiting activities that aggravate the tendon and incorporating rest periods to allow the tendon to heal.
2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to the affected area to reduce inflammation and pain, especially after activity.
3. Stretching and Physical Therapy: Specific stretching exercises for the calf muscles and Achilles tendon can improve flexibility and reduce strain.
4. Footwear Changes or Foot Orthoses: Using supportive footwear that incorporate key functional characteristics or orthotic inserts to reduce the load on the injured structures.
5. Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be recommended to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in some cases.
6. Strengthening and rehabilitation exercises. The prescription of very specific exercises can facilitate change and recovery to the injured tendon. The timing and intensity of these exercises is crucial in promoting healing and avoiding further injury.

Prevention

By understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms early, and implementing appropriate treatment and preventive measures, individuals can effectively manage Achilles tendonitis and facilitate recovery to resume normal activities without pain or discomfort. Seeking timely professional advice is crucial for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment recommendations tailored to individual needs.

If you or someone you know are effected by this very common and debilitating condition, give us a call at East Gosford Podiatry to begin your path to recovery and pain free feet again.

Phone 4325 0600.