Achilles tendon inflammation is called Achilles tendonitis that can lead to degeneration. Tendon connecting heel calcaneal bone to back of leg is felt as a large thick tendon at back of leg. Inflammation of tendon cause pain that presents as burning pain, shooting pain or piercing type pain. It can develop inflammation even without history of trauma over period of time gradually by repeatedly activities that stress the tendon.in some even prolonged periods of standing can trigger inflammation. Achilles tendonitis if left untreated has risk of rupture from its insertion to calcaneal bone. It is experienced commonly by athletes especially distance runners. It is difficult to treat Achilles tendinitis injury in athletes due to unable to stop or decrease their training and due to high level of physical activity.
Clinically – persons with Achilles tendinitis complain of that their first steps out of bed in the morning and after whenever starting to walk after prolonged sitting they experience severe pain which subsides as they start walking.
Cause-
Over-pronation in the walking gait cycle is commonest reason for Achilles tendinitis leading to collapse of medial arch adding more stress to Achilles tendon. Other causes include inappropriate shoe selection, inadequate stretching before athletic activities, a short Achilles tendon, heel bone deformity and injury or trauma direct to the tendon.
Treatment –
warm-up the muscles by stretching exercises for athletics before running etc, distance of their walk or run should be decreased, apply ice after the athletic activity to relax muscle and tendon and avoid any climbs like stairs or hills. Athletes should use an orthotic device or heel cup are prescribed and should be used. it reduces stress and pressure on the Achilles tendon by elevating the heel. light-weight, shock absorbing materials should be used to make that orthotics. An orthotics can prevent over-pronation, support the medial longitudinal arch, and stress on the Achilles tendon is reduced.
If the problem persists, consult your podiatrist.
