If you’re a runner or regularly participate in other strenuous athletics, Achilles tendinitis is something that you may experience at some point. Achilles tendinitis is an injury caused by overuse of the Achilles tendon, which is the thick band of tissue that connects your heel bone to the back of your lower leg. Here, we’ll take a closer look at this condition and what you can expect if you encounter it.
What Causes Achilles Tendinitis?
Your Achilles tendon is the part of your lower leg that allows you to push off when you’re walking, running, or jumping. So, the tendon takes on the most wear and tear when you frequently repeat these types of motion at a high intensity level. For example, Achilles tendinitis is very common with sprinters and long-distance runners—especially if they’ve recently increased the intensity or duration of their runs. Achilles tendinitis can also occur in people who play sports like basketball, tennis, and soccer.
What Are the Symptoms of Achilles Tendinitis?
Typically, Achilles tendinitis will come with recognizable symptoms. If you start to experience one or more of the following symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact us at Progressive Spine & Orthopaedics:
- Pain around the Achilles tendon and heel while you’re walking or running
- Pain in the Achilles tendon when you touch or move it
- Achilles tendon soreness and stiffness in the morning
- Swelling around the Achilles tendon and/or heel
- Difficulty standing on your toes
In most cases, Achilles tendinitis will begin as a mild ache around the heel or lower leg, which will be most apparent after running or exercising. However, if you continue to put strain on the tendon, the pain will likely continue to get worse and more frequent. As the tendon continues to weaken, it may also become more susceptible to tearing.
What Is the Takeaway?
Sometimes, Achilles tendinitis will fade on its own if you adjust your routine and give the tendon rest. However, if your pain is severe or persistent, it’s best to get treatment as soon as possible. At Progressive Spine & Orthopaedics, our skilled doctors can help you keep the condition under control and speed up the healing process. Simply contact our office today if you’d like to schedule a consultation.