Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles Tendonitis

What is Achilles Tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis is a common condition of heel pain caused by the inflammation of the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in our body and connects our calf muscles (tricep surae) to the back of the heel bone. The function of the Achilles tendon is to plantarflex our ankle joint, and allow us to push off during walking, running, or jumping. Achilles tendonitis is often misdiagnosed as plantar fasciitis because of its similarities in the symptoms.

There are 2 forms of Achilles tendonitis – mid-portion tendonitis and insertional tendonitis.

Mid-portion Achilles tendonitis occurs in the midsection of the tendon, typically more than 2cm away from the back of the heel bone. Insertional Achilles tendonitis occurs at the junction where the tendon attaches to the back of the heel bone.

What is Achilles Tendonitis? - Straits Podiatry

Causes of Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis occurs as a result of overloading the tendon. When the Achilles tendon suffers tension beyond its limit to withstand, micro-tears within the tendon occurs. This can be due to a sudden increase in activity or prolonged overuse of the Achilles tendon.

The repeated process of micro-tears and self-healing will create a series of changes to the tendon structure, from inflammation to thickening and eventually degeneration of the Achilles tendon. If left untreated, one may face a risk of Achilles rupture.

Risk Factors of Achilles Tendonitis

Risk factors of Achilles tendonitis include:

  • Old age
  • Obesity or high BMI
  • Flat feet (pes planus) or high arch feet (pes cavus)
  • Calf tightness
  • Sudden increase in activity
  • Repetitive stress from high-impact sports
  • Poor choice of footwear
Signs and symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis (Heel Pain).

Signs and Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis

Signs and symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include:

  • Pain on the first few steps in the morning
  • Aching pain at the back of the heel and leg after prolonged walking
  • Redness and/or swelling at the back of the heel or along the tendon
  • Palpable lump on the Achilles tendon or back of the heel
  • Pain that worsens with activity
  • Pain and difficulty pointing the foot downward or pushing down from the ankle (as if pressing on the gas pedal in a car)
Achilles Tendonitis Treatment Singapore

Achilles Tendonitis Treatment

Achilles tendonitis treatment involves treating the injured tendon and addressing the underlying cause of the injury.

Treatment options for Achilles tendonitis include:

Your podiatrist should assess your condition thoroughly and guide you through treatment and recovery.

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