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Injury Articles
Injury Articles

Achilles

SYMPTOMS

  • Pain along the achilles tendon during/after activity Swelling over the distal 1-3 inches of the Achilles tendon (see picture) Tender to touch Pain associated with or when trying to raise up on the toes, or with stretching of the calf/Achilles tendon
  • Limited range of motion and stiffness

DEFINITIONS

Achilles Tendonitis

  • An inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone (calcaneus)
  • May be small tears in the tendon from overuse

Achilles rupture

  • Weakening of the collagen fibers of the tendon leading to partial tearing or rupture (complete tear) of the tendon away from the heel
  • Rupture noted by inability to raise up on toes or push off with ball of foot in walking

Tenosynovitis

  • Inflammation of the vascular sheath that covers the Achilles tendon
  • May even be caused by the shoe counter rubbing on the heel
  • Stretching of the calf (both gastroc and soleus) muscles and Achilles tendon can help eliminate or prevent many problems with the achilles tendon.
  • Strengthening of the calf muscles once the inflammation is gone, can help prevent further injury.
  • Avoid hill or stair running until symptoms disappear.
  • Supporting the foot with the proper shoes and insoles, can prevent or eliminate the vast majority of increased stresses on the lower extremity. This may be a Birkenstock sandal, with a broad base and contoured footbed, that is low to the ground and conforms to the foot. It may also be a shoe with an upper that wraps the foot and supports the arch and heel thus limiting excessive pronation. The vast majority of footwear have more than enough cushion but very little support for the arch and heel. One of the easiest and most effective solutions is to add a simple over the counter insole that provides a forgiving support for both the arch and heel.
  • Make sure that the heel collar does not dig into the achilles. Look for a cut out of the heel (heel notch)

THE FOLLOWING ARE A FEW HELPFUL EXERCISES. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR FOR SPECIFICS ON YOUR CONDITION AND WHAT YOU SHOULD, OR SHOULD NOT DO FOR YOUR PROBLEM.