Achilles Tendinitis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of Achilles tendinitis?

Achilles tendinitis is characterized by pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon, which is the large tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. The symptoms of Achilles tendinitis can vary in severity and may include:

1. Pain and stiffness: The most common symptom is pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon, especially in the morning or after periods of rest. The pain may worsen with activity.
2. Swelling: Swelling around the Achilles tendon may occur, especially after physical activity or prolonged standing.
3. Tenderness: The Achilles tendon may be tender to the touch, especially where it attaches to the heel bone.
4. Thickening of the tendon: The Achilles tendon may feel thickened or swollen compared to the unaffected side.
5. Difficulty walking or running: Pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon can make it difficult to walk or run, especially uphill or on uneven surfaces.
6. Bone spur: In some cases, a bone spur (a bony growth) may develop where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone, causing additional pain and irritation.

It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience persistent pain, swelling, or stiffness in the Achilles tendon, as untreated Achilles tendinitis can lead to more serious complications, such as tendon tears. A healthcare provider can diagnose Achilles tendinitis based on your symptoms and may recommend treatments such as rest, ice, physical therapy, or medications to reduce pain and inflammation.

What are the causes of Achilles tendinitis?

Achilles tendinitis is usually caused by overuse or repetitive strain on the Achilles tendon, which can lead to small tears in the tendon and subsequent inflammation. Some common causes and risk factors for Achilles tendinitis include:

1. Overuse: Engaging in activities that place repetitive stress on the Achilles tendon, such as running, jumping, or dancing, can increase the risk of developing tendinitis.
2. Tight calf muscles: Tight calf muscles can increase the strain on the Achilles tendon and make it more susceptible to injury.
3. Sudden increase in activity: A sudden increase in the intensity or duration of physical activity, such as starting a new exercise program or increasing the intensity of workouts too quickly, can strain the Achilles tendon and lead to tendinitis.
4. Improper footwear: Wearing shoes that do not provide adequate support or cushioning for the foot and ankle can increase the risk of developing Achilles tendinitis.
5. Poor biomechanics: Issues with foot alignment or gait abnormalities can increase the risk of developing tendinitis.
6. Age: As people age, the Achilles tendon may become less flexible and more prone to injury.
7. Gender: Men are more likely than women to develop Achilles tendinitis.
8. Certain sports: Sports that involve repetitive jumping, running, or sudden changes in direction, such as basketball, soccer, or tennis, can increase the risk of Achilles tendinitis.
9. Previous injury: A history of Achilles tendon injuries or conditions such as Achilles tendinosis (chronic degeneration of the tendon) can increase the risk of developing tendinitis.

It’s important to address the underlying causes and risk factors for Achilles tendinitis to prevent further injury and promote healing. This may involve modifying activities, wearing proper footwear, stretching and strengthening exercises, and, in some cases, physical therapy or other interventions.

What is the treatment for Achilles tendinitis?

The treatment for Achilles tendinitis typically involves a combination of rest, ice, stretching, strengthening exercises, and other interventions to reduce pain and inflammation and promote healing. Here are some common treatments for Achilles tendinitis:

1. Rest: Resting the affected leg and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms is important to allow the tendon to heal. Switching to low-impact activities, such as swimming or cycling, may help maintain fitness without aggravating the tendon.
2. Ice: Applying ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce pain and inflammation. Be sure to wrap the ice pack in a towel to protect your skin.
3. Stretching: Stretching exercises for the calf muscles and Achilles tendon can help improve flexibility and reduce strain on the tendon. Stretching should be done gently and without bouncing.
4. Strengthening exercises: Strengthening the calf muscles can help support the Achilles tendon and reduce the risk of future injury. Exercises such as calf raises and heel drops can be effective.
5. Footwear: Wearing proper footwear with good arch support and cushioning can help reduce strain on the Achilles tendon.
6. Orthotic devices: Using orthotic devices, such as heel lifts or arch supports, can help reduce stress on the Achilles tendon and promote proper alignment of the foot and ankle.
7. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation. It’s important to follow the recommended dosage and use these medications with caution, especially if you have other health conditions.
8. Physical therapy: A physical therapist can develop a tailored exercise program to help strengthen the Achilles tendon and surrounding muscles and improve flexibility and range of motion.
9. Corticosteroid injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce pain and inflammation in the tendon. However, these injections should be used sparingly, as they can weaken the tendon over time.
10. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT): ESWT uses shockwaves to stimulate healing in the Achilles tendon and may be used in cases where other treatments have not been effective.

If conservative treatments do not provide relief, or if the tendon is severely damaged, surgery may be necessary to repair the tendon. However, surgery is typically considered only after other treatments have been tried and failed.

Will Achilles tendinitis heal on its own?

In many cases, Achilles tendinitis can heal on its own with conservative treatments and self-care measures. However, the healing process can vary depending on the severity of the injury and how well the individual responds to treatment. Mild cases of Achilles tendinitis may improve with rest, ice, stretching, and over-the-counter pain medications within a few weeks.

For more severe or persistent cases, it’s important to seek medical attention to determine the best course of treatment. A healthcare provider can help diagnose the condition, rule out other potential causes of pain, and recommend appropriate treatments to promote healing and prevent further injury. In some cases, physical therapy or other interventions may be necessary to help the tendon heal properly.

It’s also important to follow any recommendations for activity modification and to avoid activities that may aggravate the tendon during the healing process. With proper care and treatment, most people with Achilles tendinitis can recover fully and return to their normal activities.