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Achilles tendinopathy (Heel pain) is an overuse injury that involves inflammation or degeneration of the Achilles tendon. It is often caused by repetitive strain from activities such as running, jumping, or sudden changes in intensity during exercise.
Heel pain can make your daily activities difficult. A common culprit of this discomfort is Achilles tendinopathy, also known as Achilles tendonitis. The condition affects the Achilles tendon, the largest tendon in the body, which connects the calf muscle to the heel bone.
Several factors can contribute to Achilles tendinopathy:
Achilles tendinopathy usually presents with the following symptoms:
A specific form of Achilles tendinopathy is insertional Achilles tendinopathy, which affects the area where the tendon attaches to the heel bone. This type of tendinopathy is often accompanied by pain and tenderness near the bottom of the heel, especially during activities that involve pushing, such as running uphill or climbing stairs.
Although the activities and mechanics described above directly contribute to the development of Achilles tendinopathy, certain factors make people more susceptible to experiencing the condition:
If you suspect Achilles tendinopathy, consultation with a healthcare professional is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. They will likely perform a physical exam, ask about your medical history and activity level, and may recommend imaging tests such as x-rays or ultrasounds for further evaluation.
Fortunately, Achilles tendinopathy is usually treated with conservative measures:
In severe cases, where non-surgical approaches fail to provide adequate relief, your doctor might consider:
If Achilles tendonitis is left untreated, it can lead to a rupture or complete tear of the tendon. This often causes sudden, severe pain and may require surgical intervention to repair the damage.
Persistent inflammation and irritation of the Achilles tendon can result in chronic pain, impacting daily activities and mobility, and reducing the quality of life.
Ongoing tendonitis can weaken the calf muscles, affecting your ability to perform physical activities, including walking, running, and climbing stairs.
Without proper treatment, the Achilles tendon may have difficulty healing. The prolonged inflammation can hinder the body’s natural healing processes, resulting in long-term issues and delayed recovery.
Chronic Achilles tendonitis can potentially cause nerve damage in the affected area. This can lead to numbness, tingling, and further complications that may require additional medical attention.
Untreated Achilles tendonitis can cause recurring pain in the foot and ankle, which may result in the need for more intensive treatments in the future.
Switch between high-impact activities, like running and basketball, and low-impact activities, such as swimming and cycling. This variation helps prevent excessive strain on the Achilles tendon.
When starting a new sport or exercise regimen, gradually increase the frequency and intensity. Begin slowly and build up to more advanced levels to allow your tendons to adapt to the new demands.
Avoid activities that place excessive strain on your tendons, such as hill running. If you feel pain during an activity, stop immediately to prevent further injury.
Incorporate daily stretching into your routine to maintain flexibility in your calf muscles. Regular stretching helps reduce the risk of tendon aches and injuries.
Strengthening your calf muscles supports the Achilles tendon, helping it handle the stress of daily activities and exercise. Include exercises like calf raises in your workout routine.
Thoroughly warm up before engaging in strenuous exercise. Focus on stretching your muscles, especially the calves, to prepare them for physical activity.
Choose shoes with good cushioning and arch support to reduce strain on the Achilles tendon. Consider using orthopaedic inserts or arch supports to enhance comfort and support.
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