25px;">Achilles tendonitis is a common condition that affects many people, especially those who engage in activities that require repetitive movement or excessive pressure on the tendon. Achilles tendonitis occurs due to continuous strain or overuse, leading to tissue damage around the tendon and the onset of pain and inflammation.
This condition is more common among athletes but can affect anyone who exerts intense physical effort without adequate rest.
In this article, we will explore the causes of Achilles tendonitis, the factors that increase the likelihood of developing it, and the symptoms that help diagnose the condition.
We will also review available treatment methods, whether medical treatments or rehabilitation exercises, and provide tips for preventing future injuries.
What is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the human body and plays a crucial role in movements such as walking, running, and jumping. It is subjected to repeated stresses due to intense physical activities or chronic strain.
Detailed Causes of Achilles Tendonitis
- Repeated stress on the tendon: Achilles tendonitis occurs when the tendon is exposed to repetitive movements that cause tissue wear over time. Activities such as long-distance running or frequent jumping in sports can put excessive pressure on the tendon.
- Sudden increase in physical activity: People who abruptly increase the intensity or duration of their workouts without allowing the tendon time to adapt may be at risk of developing inflammation.
- Weak surrounding muscles: Weak or inflexible calf muscles increase the strain on the Achilles tendon, making it more prone to injury.
- Inappropriate footwear: Wearing sports shoes that do not provide adequate support for the heel or foot arch can increase the risk of inflammation. Similarly, high heels or rigid shoes can put direct pressure on the tendon area.
- Previous injuries: If a person has had a previous Achilles tendon injury that was not properly treated, they are more likely to develop inflammation.
- Excess weight or obesity: Extra weight places additional pressure on the tendon while walking or running, making it more susceptible to inflammation.
Detailed Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis
- Gradual pain at the back of the leg or heel: The pain starts as mild and gradually increases with continued physical activity, especially after running or climbing stairs.
- Morning stiffness: The affected person experiences stiffness in the heel or calf area upon waking, which may improve with movement.
- Swelling and redness around the tendon: A slight swelling accompanied by redness may appear in the affected area due to inflammation.
- Clicking sound with movement: In advanced cases, a faint clicking sound may be heard when moving the ankle or pressing on the tendon.
- Weakness in the foot and ankle: The affected person may find it difficult to stand on their toes or perform simple movements due to tendon weakness.
How to Manage Achilles Tendonitis
Home Treatments:
- Rest: Reduce activities that cause pain to relieve pressure on the tendon.
- Use of ice: Apply an ice pack to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling.
- Elevating the foot: Keep the foot elevated while sitting to decrease inflammation.
Physical Therapy:
- Stretching exercises to improve tendon flexibility.
- Strengthening calf muscles to support the tendon and prevent further injuries.
Medical Treatment:
- Doctors may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling.
- In some cases, injection therapies such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may be used to promote tendon healing.
Surgical Intervention:
In severe or chronic cases that do not respond to conventional treatments, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged tissues.
Prevention of Achilles Tendonitis
- Warming up before exercise.
- Gradually increasing physical activity.
- Wearing sports shoes that provide sufficient support for the heel and foot arch.
- Focusing on strengthening exercises for the muscles surrounding the Achilles tendon to reduce strain.
- Maintaining muscle flexibility to reduce stress on the Achilles tendon during daily activities or exercise.
- Maintaining a healthy weight through exercise and a balanced diet to reduce injury risk.
- Avoiding continuous exercise without taking adequate rest periods.
- Using special supports when needed.
- Avoiding high-impact activities without proper training.
- Listening to your body.
- If you have had a previous Achilles tendon injury, ensure full recovery before returning to intense activities.
Preventing Achilles tendonitis not only helps avoid pain or injuries but also enhances athletic performance and improves daily movement.
Achilles tendonitis can be very frustrating, so following these tips makes the tendon more resilient and reduces the likelihood of damage, giving you a more active and comfortable lifestyle.
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