Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles Tendonitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone (calcaneus). Tendonitis refers to the inflammation of a tendon.

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Description: Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis is the inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) to the heel bone (calcaneus).
It can be caused by running on hard surfaces (such as concrete), training in cold environments, running uphill frequently, or practicing gymnastics on hard floors.

Acute Achilles tendonitis is a sudden, one-time inflammation of the Achilles tendon.
Chronic Achilles tendonitis occurs when the inflammation returns repeatedly, often leading people to “live with it.”
If not treated properly, acute tendonitis can progress into chronic tendonitis.

Symptoms: Achilles Tendonitis

Acute Achilles Tendonitis

• Pain at the bottom of the tendon during or after exercise.
  The longer the session, the more likely the pain will appear.
• Pain during activities such as jumping on the balls of your feet or rope skipping.
• Possible swelling or redness.
• You may feel a creaking sensation when pressing your finger on the tendon and sliding it up and down.

Chronic Achilles Tendonitis

• Pain that disappears once you warm up but returns after exercise.
• Pain when standing up in the morning when the tendon is cold.
• Small lumps on the Achilles tendon less than one inch above the heel.
• Pain during activities like walking on the balls of your feet or rope skipping.

Who Is Susceptible: Achilles Tendonitis

• Sprinters
• Gymnasts
• XMA athletes and trickers
• Ballet dancers
• Rope skippers
• Women who frequently wear high heels and then switch to flat shoes for running
• People who begin running on the balls of their feet and cover long distances too quickly
• People with abnormal foot arches (too flat or too high)
• Those who run fast on hard surfaces or train in cold environments

Treatment: Achilles Tendonitis

• Rest and apply cold therapy.
• Consult a doctor, who may:
  • Prescribe an anti-inflammatory medication (such as diclofenac)
  • Recommend orthotics
  • Help adjust your training methods
  • Order an MRI or ultrasound scan
• Temporarily use heel pads to relieve pressure and reduce stretching of the tendon.
• Undergo sports massage techniques.
• Receive ultrasound treatment.
• Use taping for support or a plaster cast to reduce stress on the tendon.
• In severe cases: surgery may be required, followed by at least six months of rehabilitation.

Trainer Advice: Achilles Tendonitis

• If your Achilles tendon is already inflamed:
  • Avoid exercising in cold environments (keep the tendon warm and wear high socks).
  • Avoid training on hard surfaces—do not jump or sprint on concrete.
  • Avoid bouncing on the balls of your feet.
  • Avoid dynamic calf stretching.
  • Do not train calf muscles with low repetitions.
  • Allow your tendonitis to heal completely before returning to exercise.

Related Topics

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Jumper’s Knee
• Ankle Sprain

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