Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles Tendonitis

The largest tendon in the human body is the Achilles tendon and it is designed to handle over 1,000 pounds of force. The Achilles tendon is also the most often ruptured or injured tendon. Achilles tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendon resulting from overuse.

Achilles tendonitis can flare up for several reasons including increasing running distances or speed too quickly, attacking hills too aggressively during training, returning to heavy activity too soon after extended periods of rest, and lack of flexibility in the calf muscles. The condition can also appear after sudden calf muscle contraction during activity.

People experiencing Achilles tendonitis may feel dull pain after exercise that increasingly worsens over time. There may be severe pain along the tendon during or following exercise. Sufferers may feel tenderness in the morning in the lower calf or stiffness that will loosen as the area warms up with activity.

There are several treatments for Achilles tendonitis and they depend on the severity of the condition. Rest is the most immediate treatment but anti-inflammatory medication, stretching, message and ultrasound treatments prove helpful. The use of orthoses, more specifically, custom foot orthotics can dramatically improve the condition and prevent future flare ups.

Of course surgery to heal Achilles tendonitis is an option but should be considered as a treatment of last resort. Surgery will reduce friction between the tendon and its covering sheath which may have built up thick tissue. Also during surgery any tears can be repaired. Recovering from such procedures can be slow and will require rehabilitation to strengthen the area and prevent new injury.

Prevention is always the best medicine. It is very important to use the right shoes which will provide cushion and support during activity. A prescribed custom foot orthotic will change the alignment of misaligned heel bone and greatly reduce the chances of of experiencing Achilles tendonitis. A solid routine of warm up, stretch and cool down is always recommended .