Achilles Tendonitis

What is it?

Achilles tendonitis is pain and inflammation over the Achilles tendon. It is commonly seen in running and jumping sports.

Causes

• Excessive pronation (rolling in) of the feet leading to an increase in the load applied to the gastrocnemius-soleus complex (the two muscles that combine to form the Achilles tendon) required to push off when walking/running.
• Calves weakness
• Poor muscle flexibility
• Poor or worn out footwear.
• Excessive running
• Over-training or unaccustomed use – “too much too soon”
• Sudden change in training surface – e.g. grass to bitumen

Symptoms

• Pain behind the heel in an area 2-6cm above where the tendon attaches to the heel.
• Achilles tendons will often have a painful and prominent lump within the tendon.
• Patients with Achilles tendonitis usually experience the most significant pain after periods of inactivity
• Patients will also experience pain while participating in activities, such as when running or jumping

Treatment

• Rest, ice, and reduced training
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
• Biomechanical correction and prescription of foot orthoses to reduce excessive pronation.
• Shockwave
• Good supportive footwear