Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles Tendonitis (pain at the back of the heel) means 'inflammation of the Achilles tendon.' The Achilles tendons are the longest tendons in the body and they connect the calf muscles to the heel. When the calf muscles contract they pull on the Achilles tendon, causing the foot to point down and helping you rise on your toes. Therefore, the Achilles tendon plays an important role in walking and running.
Achilles pain occurs just above the back of the heel and often sufferers experience tightness in the calf muscles. The Achilles tendon may be noticeably thickened and a bit tender to touch. Pain is present with walking and running, especially when pushing off on the toes.
Achilles Tendonitis pain can develop gradually without any history of injury or trauma. The pain can be a burning pain, a shooting pain or even an extremely piercing/stabbing pain. Achilles Tendonitis should not be left untreated because there's a chance of the tendon becoming weak and eventually rupturing. Achilles pain can be aggravated by activities that repeatedly put stress on the tendon (e.g. jumping or running uphill or on sand) causing irritation and inflammation. To consult a health professional for Achilles Tendinitis we recommended Foot Mechanics Podiatry.
Achilles pain is a common problem, often experienced by active people and those over the age of 40 as our tendons start to lose the stretch and recover capacity – particularly in long distance runners. Achilles Tendonitis is a difficult injury to treat in active people due to their high level of activity and reluctance to stop or slow down their training.
People who suffer from Achilles Tendonitis often notice that their first steps out of bed in the morning are very painful. Or pain after taking their first steps after long periods of sitting. The pain can lessen with activity, but with prolonged activity the pain returns again.
What causes Achilles Tendonitis?
Persistent strain on the Achilles tendons causes irritation and inflammation. In severe cases this strain may even cause the tendon to rupture. Chronic over use (particularly in runners) may contribute to changes in the Achilles tendon as well, leading to degeneration and thickening of the tendon.
Tight calf muscles also contribute to Achilles Tendonitis. As we age our tendons will degenerate. Degeneration means that wear and tear occurs in the tendon over time, leading to weakness in the fibres of the tendon.
There are several other factors that may cause Achilles Tendonitis. The most common cause is overpronation. Overpronation occurs during walking and running, when the arch collapses upon weight bearing, adding stress on the Achilles tendon.
Other factors that lead to Achilles Tendonitis are badly worn shoes, inadequate stretching prior to engaging in activity, an anatomically short Achilles tendon, direct trauma or injury to the tendon and heel bone deformity.
Treatment solutions for Achilles Tendonitis
Active people, with Achilles Tendinitis particularly runners, should incorporate a thorough stretching program to properly warm up the muscles and tendons. They should decrease the distance of their walk or run, apply ice after the activity and avoid any uphill climbs. Active people should use an orthotic insole for extra support and to reduce stress and pressure on the achilles tendon.
Footlogics orthotics help prevent overpronation. By wearing orthotics the strain on the Achilles will be greatly reduced, giving the tendons a chance to heal. Plus, the orthotic may prevent the situation from worsening, reducing the risk of a tendon rupture. If the problem persists consult a physiotherapist or podiatrist.
In addition to orthotics, to help relieve or prevent Achilles Tendonitis it is also highly recommended to gently stretch your Achilles tendons and calf muscles before taking part in any physical activities, like walking or running. Perform stretching exercises slowly and gently, stretching to the point at which you feel a noticeable pull but not pain.
Recommended products for Achilles Tendinitis
Footlogics - Casual
Space saving orthotics to provide foot comfort. The Footlogics Casual is a 3/4 length orthotic developed by Podiatrists. It provides relief for Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain) and other common foot complaints. The Casual fits in all types of flat or low-heeled slip-on shoes without laces. More about Footlogics Casual here.
Footlogics - Comfort
Orthotics designed to provide foot comfort while standing or walking on your feet all day. The Footlogics Comfort is a full-length orthotic developed by Podiatrists. The Comfort provides relief for Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain), Ball of Foot pain, and other common foot complaints. It fits in all types of lace-up shoes including joggers and also suitable for work boots. More about Footlogics Comfort here.
Footlogics - Sports
Orthotics to provides relief for sports injuries. Footlogics Sports are high quality full-length sports orthotics developed by Podiatrists. The Sports provides relief for sports injuries like Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain), Achilles Tendonitis, Shin Splints and Runner’s knee. It corrects overpronation, fallen arches and flat feet. The Footlogics Sport is designed to fit in running and walking shoes, cross-trainers, tennis and basketball shoes. It is also suitable for hiking shoes and boots. More about Footlogics Sports here.