The Achilles tendon is a large tendon that runs down the back of the leg. It attaches the calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) to the heel bone
It gives you the ability to push off during walking and running
Causes:
During contraction of the calf muscles, tension is placed on the Achilles tendon.
Too much repetitive or high force puts excessive tension on the Achilles tendon and this can cause damage
This leads to degeneration and inflammation
Can occur due to trauma where the high force going through the tendon is more than it can withstand, or due to gradual wear and tear
Overload can occur due to one or many of the following; - Increase in activity (frequency, intensity or duration) - Running on hard or uneven surfaces - Tight or weak calf muscles - Stiff ankle joint that has reduced range of motion - Poor footwear not providing adequate support - Poor foot posture and biomechanics leading to excessive stress on the Achilles tendon
Symptoms:
Can be from mild to severe – can be shooting, burning or intense piercing pain in the back of the heel
Pain, swelling, stiffness and weakness of the Achilles tendon
It may present where the Achilles tendon attaches on the heel bone or in the mid portion of the tendon about 5cm up from the heel bone
Generally painful on walking first thing in the morning or after sitting for extended periods of time
Treatment:
In the acute stages : Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
Poor blood supply to the Achilles tendon can mean a long slow rehabilitation
Reduce overload of the Achilles tendon: - Appropriate stretching and strengthening exercises - Modify activity – frequency, intensity or duration - Footwear changes suggested by a Podiatrist - Fully assess lower limb biomechanics - Foot orthotics provided by a Podiatrist
A completely ruptured Achilles tendon is most often surgically repaired
