Achilles tendonitis

As the name says, Achilles tendonitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon due to repetitive or strain on the Achilles tendon. The related pain with the Achilles tendinitis typically begins as a mild ache in the back of the leg or above the heel after running or other sports activity.

Characteristics/Clinical Presentation

• Stiffness of heel and lower leg that is more severe in the morning hours.
• Pain along the heel (where the tendon is inserted into the heel bone) increases with activity.
• Visible or palpable thickening of the tendon
• Swelling due to long-standing inflammatory changes in bone, also called bony spur formation.
• Swelling of lower leg or heel that worsens with activity.

Risk factors for the development of Achilles tendonitis 

Several factors may increase your risk of Achilles tendinitis, including:

•  Achilles tendinitis occurs most commonly in men.
• Age. Achilles tendinitis is more common as you age.
• Physical problems. A naturally flat arch in your foot can put more strain on the Achilles tendon. Obesity and tight calf muscles also can increase tendon strain.
• Training conditions. Running in worn-out shoes can increase your risk of Achilles tendinitis. Tendon pain occurs more frequently in cold weather than in warm weather, and running on hilly terrain also can predispose you to Achilles injury.
• Medical conditions.People who have psoriasis or high blood pressure are at higher risk of developing Achilles tendinitis.
• Medications. Certain types of antibiotics, called fluoroquinolones, have been associated with higher rates of Achilles tendinitis.

Physiotherapy Management:

Strengthening exercises. This type of exercise will get you started on building strength after an Achilles tendon injury. In the York-med physiotherapy our registered physiotherapist can help you move on to more challenging exercises as you heal and get stronger.

Stretching and flexibility exercises. 

To do effective stretching exercises:

1. Hold each stretch for at least 15 to 30 seconds.
2. Don’t bounce while you stretch.
3. Just relax and breathe freely.

It’s a good idea to do these stretches on both legs, even if you only have problems with one of your Achilles’ tendons. Stretch one leg first, and then the other. Toe stretch, calf plantar fascia stretch, calf stretch and stair stretch are the main stretching exercises for Achilles tendonitis. Make sure to discuss with your physiotherapist before doing any of the above exercises.