overview
Achilles tendonitis is an overuse injury to the Achilles tendon (uh-KILL-eez), the ligament of tissue that connects the calf muscles on the back of the lower leg to the heel bone.
Achilles tendonitis is most common in runners who have suddenly increased the intensity or duration of their runs. It’s also common among middle-aged people who only practice sports such as tennis or basketball on weekends.
Most cases of Achilles tendonitis can be managed with relatively simple home care under the supervision of your doctor. Self-management strategies are usually required to avoid recurring episodes. More severe cases of Achilles tendonitis can cause tendon tears (ruptures) that may require surgical repair.
symptom
Achilles tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis Open the popup dialog
Achilles tendon-related pain usually starts with mild pain in the back of the leg or over the heel after running or other exercise. More intense episodes of pain can occur after a long run, climbing stairs, or sprinting.
There may also be tenderness or stiffness, especially in the morning, which usually improve with light activity.
The reasons
Achilles tendonitis is caused by repeated or intense stress on the Achilles tendon, the ligament of tissue that connects your calf muscles to the heel bone. This tendon is used when walking, running, jumping, or pressing on your toes.
The structure of the Achilles tendon weakens with age, which can make it more prone to injury – especially in people who only exercise on weekends or who have suddenly increased the intensity of the exercise. Your running programs.
Risk factors
A number of factors can increase your risk of Achilles tendonitis, including:
Your gender Achilles tendonitis is most common in men.
Age. Achilles tendonitis is more common with age.
Physical problems. A naturally flat arch of the foot can put more strain on the Achilles tendon. Obesity and tight calf muscles can also increase tendon tension.
Choice of training. Running in worn out shoes can increase your risk of developing Achilles tendonitis. Tendon pain is more common in cold weather than hot weather, and running in hilly terrain can also predispose you to Achilles injuries.
Diseases. People with psoriasis or high blood pressure are at a higher risk of developing Achilles tendonitis.
Medication. Certain types of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones have been linked to higher rates of Achilles tendonitis.
prevention
Although preventing Achilles tendonitis isn’t possible, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
Gradually increase your activity level. If you are just starting an exercise program, start slowly and gradually increase the duration and intensity of the exercise.
Always with Tranquillity. Avoid activities that put undue strain on your tendons, such as exercise. B. Mountaineering. When participating in a rigorous activity, the first thing to do is to warm up by exercising more slowly. If you are in pain during a particular exercise, stop and rest.
Choose your shoes carefully. The shoes you wear while exercising should provide adequate cushioning for your heel and have firm arch support to reduce stress on the Achilles tendon. Replace your worn out shoes. If your shoes are in good condition but don’t support your feet, try the arch supports in both shoes.
Stretch out every day. In the morning, before and after your workout, take the time to stretch the calf muscles and Achilles tendon for flexibility. This is especially important to prevent Achilles tendonitis from coming back.
Strengthen your calf muscles. Strong calf muscles allow the calf and Achilles tendon to better cope with the stresses they are exposed to during activity and movement.
Cross the train. Alternate high impact activities like running and jumping with low impact activities like cycling and swimming.