How to Identify Achilles Tendinitis

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Overexertion of this tendon can result in inflammation - a condition known as Achilles tendinitis. Note the following symptoms of this painful condition, which can result in the formation of scar tissue in the injured area.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Note any pain or hotness along the back of the tendon, especially close to the heel, when you touch or move your ankle or foot. Often the pain will dissipate after you begin to walk or move and will return after you stop moving.
2. Notice whether your ankle feels stiff. Often in the case of Achilles tendinitis, ankle movement will be restricted by this stiffness.
3. Check for mild swelling along the tendon. This might occur when scar tissue begins to form.
4. Identify when the pain first began and the activity that preceded it. Achilles tendinitis usually appears the morning after an activity that involves overextension or overuse of the ankles, heels or toes.

Tips & Warnings

• Check for the following symptoms, which might indicate a more serious injury such as a fracture or dislocation: sudden and intense onset of pain; bruising; deformity; inability to move the joint; absence of a detectable pulse in the foot; pain at one particular point; inability to move the toes; tingling or lack of sensation in the foot or toes.
• If Achilles tendinitis is left untreated, the resulting scar tissue will replace the tendon, and the condition will become more difficult, if not impossible, to treat.
• If symptoms persist or if you have specific medical conditions or concerns, we recommend that you contact a physician. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.