Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles was the Greek  Warrior that died when Apollo shot a poison arrow in his heel.  This was Achilles’ weak spot and thus the term Achilles heel came about.  The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the body.  However, it is very prone to injury. 

When the Achilles tendon gets inflamed we call it, Achilles Tendonitis.  This usually occurs due to overuse.  Anybody can get Achilles Tendinitis.  People with high arches and people with low arches.  Athletes and non-athletes. 

Athletes who are increase their training quickly instead of gradually are prone to this type of tendonitis.  This strong tendon does not need rest at times.  It is important to warm up properly and stretch before and after an event.  Non-athletes, or the weekend warriors are very prone to injuring the Achilles tendon.  This is because the tendon is not use to so much activity and gets strained very easily.

Flat feet causes the ankles to roll towards each other and the heels to turn outward.  This is called pronation.  This position causes an increase in tension of the Achilles Tendon.  If the foot is constantly functioning in this manner, the tendon will become strained.  High arches cause the tendon to become shorter.  The Achilles Tendon attaches to the back of the heel.  The heel bone is pointed in a more upward position in a high-arched foot.  Again, this puts an increase in strain along the tendon.

TREATMENT

With any tendonitis, the best treatment is R.I.C.E.  Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.  In severe cases, a soft cast will be applied and the patient will walk in a walking boot.  Use of heel lifts to eliminate the tension off the tendon is important.  Anti-inflammatories are also prescribed to reduce the tendon swelling. 

Custom inserts, orthotics, are also prescribed and fabricated to eliminate the biomechanical faults of the foot.  This will take care of the problem on a more permanent basis.  In addition, physical therapy to help strengthen the muscles and tendons will aid in treatment and prevention of a second episode.

If treatment is prolonged, then scar tissue can form along the area of inflammation.  This condition is called a tendonosis.  Achilles Tendonosis is very difficult to treat and can take a long time to heal.  In these cases, extracorporeal shock wave treatment or cyrotherapy are treatments that seem to help.  So, if you have long standing Achilles pain, you should look into these procedure. 

Pain is not normal.  Don’t prolong your care.  Get back to the activities you love.