Achilles Tendonitis
The Achilles tendon is the largest and the strongest tendon in the human body. It can withstand forces of in excess of 1,000 pounds. Even so, it one of the most frequently ruptured tendons.
Both professional and “weekend-warrior” athletes can suffer from Achilles Tendinitis or Tendinosis; A common overuse injury and inflammation of the tendon.
Contributing Causes for Achilles Tendinitis/ Tendinosis:
* An inherent natural lack of flexibility in the calf muscles.
* Hill running or stair climbing.
* Starting exercising too quickly/vigorously after a layoff period.
* Increasing your mileage or speed too rapidly.
* Trauma caused by sudden and/or hard contraction of the calf muscles when putting out extra effort such as in a final sprint.
Achilles Tendinitis often begins with mild pain after exercise or running that gradually worsens. Other symptoms include:
* Recurring localized pain, sometimes severe, along the tendon during or a few hours after running.
* Morning tenderness about an inch and a half above the point where the Achilles tendon is attached to the heel bone.
* Sluggishness or tightness in your leg.
* Mild or severe swelling at the lower leg/ankle.
* Stiffness that diminishes to some degree as the tendon warms up with use.
Treatment normally includes:
* A bandage specifically designed to restrict motion of the tendon.
*Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDS). These can be over-the-counter ones like Ibuprofen or Alieve, or prescription strength ones.
* Orthotics, which are devices put into your shoes to help support the muscle and relieve stress on the tendon.
* Rest, and switching to a different exercise (like swimming) that does not stress or overuse the tendon.
* Massage, ultrasound, stertching and appropriate exercises to strengthen the weak muscle group in front of the leg and the upward foot flexors.
In severe cases, a short course of physical therapy may be extremely beneficial.
In extreme cases, surgery is performed to remove the fibrous tissue and repair any tears.