About Achiles Tendon Pain
The Achilles tendon is the fibrous tissue that connects the heel to the calf muscles of the lower leg. The Achilles tendon is considered the strongest tendon in the body, withstanding considerable force from daily activities and exercise.
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Causes of Achilles Tendon Pain
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Pain in the Achilles tendon can be linked to a variety of causes, including inappropriate shoes, overuse, misalignment, and accident or injury. There are two main disorders that are the source of Achilles tendon pain: Achilles tendonitis and Achilles tendonosis.
Achilles tendonitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon. This condition often progresses into Achilles tendonosis, or the degeneration of the tendon, which may cause microscopic tears in the tissue.
Achilles Tendon Pain Symptoms
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Achilles tendon pain is usually a gradual process that is marked by soreness and stiffness. The pain is normally accompanied by aching, stiffness, soreness and tenderness. This pain often occurs below the calf muscle. Areas of tenderness often have intense pain, especially if the tendon is squeezed or if someone puts pressure on the back of the tendon.
In the case of tissue degeneration, the tendon may become enlarged and nodules may develop where the tissue is damaged or dying.
If the pain comes on suddenly and is accompanied by a popping sound, it may be an Achilles tendon rupture or tear.
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Diagnosis of Achilles Tendon Pain
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Diagnosis of Achilles tendon pain will involve an examination of the foot and ankle to determine range of motion, muscle response, and the state of the tendon and tissue. Some physicians will often use X-rays, ultrasounds or an MRI to determine the severity of the damage.
Treatment of Achilles Tendon Pain
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Treatment for Achilles tendon pain often involves rest, muscle strengthening and physical therapy in the early stages of injury. This course of treatment incorporates ice and oral medication to reduce swelling, inflammation and pain. Physical therapy is included for strengthening exercises, re-training for walking and running to reduce impact, and massage for soft-tissue healing.
If the pain is due to a rupture or tear, immobilization of the leg is often necessary to reduce strain and the force of impact from walking.
In some cases, surgery is necessary if non-invasive methods are not successful in diminishing pain and restoring the Achilles tendon to normal condition.
Prevention of Achilles Tendon Pain
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Achilles tendon pain can be prevented by maintaining proper health, especially though regular exercise, as well as making sure that warming up and stretching occurs before and after exercise.
Not having appropriate footwear can cause the Achilles tendon to overcompensate for lack of stability, causing an increase in pain and inflammation. Selecting correct footwear involves finding proper cushioning, arch height and weight distribution. If problems continue, having custom shoes made might be beneficial in taking all of these requirements into consideration, and give you a better chance of decreasing pain.
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