The Achilles tendon is the largest in your body, connecting the back of the leg with the heel bone. The function of this tendon is to dorsiflexion of the foot and propulsion. Prolonged use of this tendon can cause pain and swelling called Achilles tendonitis.1
Achilles tendinitis commonly occurs in athletes and runners, particularly off-routine exertions. It is also seen in middle-aged people who play basketball or tennis. The majority of the symptoms of Achilles tendinitis, like pain and swelling, can be self-treated at home. But some cases may show significant swelling signs, which needs the doctor’s supervision.2
Ankle Pain – Pain Relief ASAP
Signs and symptoms of Achilles tendinitis
These signs and symptoms are mostly related to inflammation and swelling. Common symptoms include:1,2
- Feeling of pain and soreness
- Tenderness at the heel area
- Pain occurs mainly after a prolonged activity
- Early morning heel stiffness
- Pain after stretching the muscles in the ankle
- Difficulties in walking and standing properly
Causes of Achilles tendinitis
- The leading cause of this issue is excessive use of the tendon. Athletes are prone to such conditions due to the tough training. Runners are the likely target for this condition.3
- The other cause can be the growth of an extra bone. This condition is called a bone spur in medical terms. This appears on the heel area where there is the attachment of the Achilles tendon. It causes severe pain to the entire region.3
- Tight calf muscles that occur due to improper stretching can cause this condition.
Treatment Options for Achilles tendinitis
Looking towards the severity of the condition, visiting a professional can be helpful. Most podiatrists are experts in this regard. Here are some essential ways to get rid of this pain as soon as possible:3,4
1. Stretching and Exercise
Stretching your calf muscles before physical activities can be beneficial. There is also an alternate way for sudden pain. You can ice wrap this area and rest for some minutes. Whenever you get hurt in the Achilles area, don’t forget to stop all the physical activities at once and rest.
2. Lifting
Lifting the affected foot can decrease discomfort for a longer time. Heel cushions and support wraps are also recommended by this health website.
3. Steroids Injections and Surgery
For severe cases, the best option is a surgery or steroids injection, which helps in alleviating the pain.
4. Balancing Your insoles
This means that you have to choose your footwear after a lot of inspection. They can lead to comfort all day long. There are hundreds of health-related equipment you can use to get quick results.
References
1. Achilles Tendon Injuries | Johns Hopkins Medicine. Accessed January 25, 2022. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/achilles-tendon-injuries
2. Achilles Tendon Problems | Michigan Medicine. Accessed January 25, 2022. https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/tr1808
3. Kozlovskaia M, Vlahovich N, Ashton KJ, Hughes DC. Biomedical Risk Factors of Achilles Tendinopathy in Physically Active People: a Systematic Review. Sports Medicine – Open. 2017;3(1). doi:10.1186/S40798-017-0087-Y
4. Achilles Tendinopathy: Advice and Management Information for patients.