Achilles tendinitis is an inflammation and/or degeneration of the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone.

Causes

The Achilles tendon can become irritated for several reasons including:

• Increasing your speed or running long distances too quickly

• Suddenly adding strenuous hills or stair climbing to your exercise routine

• Doing too much too soon after taking time away from exercising

• A sudden or violent contraction of the calf muscles, such as during an all-out sprint

• Running too much—overuse

• Lack of flexibility of the calf muscles

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.

• Improper or badly worn footwear

• Improper warm-up for your activity

• Inflexibility of the calf muscles

• Improper cool-down

• An improper training program

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

• Tenderness usually located one to two inches above the point where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone (noticeable in the morning upon rising)

• Stiffness that gradually eases as the tendon is warmed-up

• Pain after activity that gradually worsens

• Radiating or localized pain along the tendon during and/or after running

• Swelling in the area of the Achilles

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and exercise habits, and perform a physical exam.

Tests may include:

• X-rays to see if there is calcium in the tendon

• MRI Scan to view areas of interior damage to the tendon

Treatment

Prevention

To decrease your chances of getting Achilles tendinitis:

• Take the time to warm-up and cool-down properly.

• Wear appropriate footwear for your sport.

• Do not use shoes beyond the recommended duration. This will depend on:

• • How frequently you exercise

• • The surface on which you exercise

• • The conditions in which you exercise

• Gradually add hill work, stairs, speed, and distance to your exercise routine.

• Stretch and strengthen the calf muscles regularly.

RESOURCES:

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
http://www.aaos.org

References:

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

Mayo Clinic Health Letter