Achilles tendonitis refers to inflammation or degeneration of the Achilles tendon, which is the large tendon at the back of the ankle. It is sometimes called heel cord pain or Achilles tendon rupture.
The heel may also hurt or burn but generally there is a definite pain right at the tendon site. There will be pain in the tendon when standing or walking. Pain in the Achilles while descending stairs is also an indication it is tendonitis.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Achilles rupture
- Achilles periteniditis
- Heel cord strain
Symptoms:
- Pain in Achilles when putting pressure on the foot after being inactive for awhile
- Shooting pain or burning sensation in the heel
- Pain to the touch above the heel in the area of the Achilles tendon
- Pain in Achilles when descending stairs
Signs to look for:
- Pain in or above the heel when pushing off or jumping during exercise
- Inability to stand up straight
Possible Causes:
- Natural effects of aging cause more rigidity in tendon
- Lack of flexibility in gastrocnemius muscle (calf)
- Rolling over of foot caused by overpronation
- Abrupt changes in footwear
- Running or other recreational overuse
- Shortened tendon caused by wearing high heels
Goals:
- Reduce pressure on tendon in acute phase
- Balance weight transfer in feet during walking
- Correct overpronation
- Lengthen Achilles tendon and restore flexibility in leg, ankle and foot muscles
- Footwear to move the foot forward and reduce lateral movement
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotic exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotic exercising support
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- Smart Footwear such as heel to toe rockers, or non-flexing forefoot shoes
- If regular flip-flop wearer, wear only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Wear flat shoes vs. pumps or heels until condition passes and then pumps or heels only as absolutely necessary
- Go barefoot on minimal basis only
Other:
Rubber heel lift for acute phase (gradually wean off as symptoms improve). Wear in both shoes, not just the shoe of the sore foot
Activities:
- Regular stretching of gastrocnemius, soleus muscles, and Achilles tendon
- Rotate weight bearing exercises, such as walking or jogging, with non-weight bearing exercising, such as swimming or bicycling
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2012 Carole Romig
Sources Image: TheRunningDoctor.com Text: TheRunningDoctor.com, PodiatryChannel.com