Achilles Tendinopathy refers to both micro tears and inflammation in the Achilles tendon. It is a common overuse injury, especially with runners and other activities with repeated loading on the Achilles tendon.
What is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is located in the lower limb and connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is the thickest and strongest tendon in the human body. There are two areas of the tendon that can be affected by Achilles tendinopathy.
a) The mid portion of the tendon due to micro tears
b) The insertion of the tendon onto the heel due to mechanical irritation
What causes Achilles Tendinopathy?
An increase in load (training volume) is usually the main cause of Achilles Tendinopathy. The other underlying factors generally include:
• Abnormal foot biomechanics (eg excessive rolling in or out or high arch)
• Calf weakness
• Calf and hamstring tightness
• Poor footwear (inadequate heel or decreased forefoot flexibility)
• Change in training surface
• Decrease in recovery time between training sessions
Signs and Symptoms of Achilles Tendinopathy
• Burning pain in the Achilles at the beginning of activity which lessens during the activity and worsens afterwards
• Stiffness in the tendon first thing in the morning or at the beginning of exercise
• Tenderness, heat or swelling around the Achilles
• Thickening of the tendon
How is Achilles Tendinopathy treated?
Achilles Tendinopathy can be treated successfully by:
- decreasing load on the tendon
- correcting underlying foot biomechanics
- eccentric exercises
Therapies such as soft tissue massage, electrotherapy and taping can help speed up the recovery process.
Learn more about Achilles Tendinopathy
For more information or advice regarding Achilles Tendinopathy call us on 9819 6151. We are here to help and keep you moving well.
A common cause of heel pain is known as Plantar Fasciitis.
