How We Help You
Achilles Tendon Disorders
About Achilles Tendinitis
A common foot problem we treat at our clinic is Achilles tendinitis. It’s a condition that affects the Achilles tendon and typically occurs because of overuse (often sports related) and degeneration, or wearing down with age and time.
Professional & Recreational Athletes
Professional and recreational athletes are at high risk for developing and suffering with problems with their Achilles tendon. Achilles tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendon that runs down the back of the lower leg.
A sudden increase of a repetitive activity, leading to micro-injury of the tendon fibre’s, can cause these conditions. As well as repetitive activity, high-impact sports, such as jumping and basketball, can lead to tears and even ruptures of the Achilles tendon.
Achilles tendinitis is different from Achilles tendinosis, which is caused by degenerative, microscopic tears within the tendon, and also results in swelling and pain.
Changes in Footwear
Achilles tendonitis is often also caused by recent changes in footwear and changes in exercise training schedules. Unfortunately, the desire to keep fit and lose weight in older recreational athletes makes them susceptible to Achilles tendonitis, due to a loss of flexibility in the tendons as they age.
Whether you are a professional or recreational athlete the most significant pain usually occurs after a period of inactivity, for example, when you first walk in the morning, or when you get up after sitting for a long period of time. Running, jumping and other similar activities may also be painful. Achilles tendonitis pain associated with exercise is most significant when you’re pushing off or jumping.