Achilles Tendonitis

The Achilles tendon is the large tendon that attaches the powerful calf muscles to the back of the heel bone. It is important for stabilizing the foot during jumping and running and is a common area where injury occurs. Achilles tendonitis typically occurs at the tendon's weakest spot which is a few centimeters above the heel bone. This is also the area where weakening and tearing of the tendon usually occur(tendinosis).

Achilles tendonitis/tendinosis can be aggravated or caused by tight calf muscles. Calf muscle stretching on a daily basis can help prevent tendon problems. Adding heel lifts to shoes helps reduce strain on the Achilles tendon. Be sure to add heel lifts to both shoes to maintain postural stability.

Achilles tendon pain may not mean inflammation is present. Tendon pain is often caused by micro-tears and weakening of the collagen within the tendon and shows minimal (if any) inflammation at the cellular level. This gives insight as to why anti-inflammatory drugs may not alleviate the pain.

Pain at the heel bone where the tendon attaches, is more than likely not tendonitis and/or tendonosis, but bursitis. Bursitis is inflammation of a pocket of fluid (bursa) near the bone.

For more information about common types of tendonitis that affect the foot and ankle, please visit our website, www.drrobertrosenstein.com and/or give our office a call, 440-946-5858, for a consultation.