Achilles tendinitis
 WHAT IS IT?
A tendon is a resistive band of fibrous connective tissue that connects a muscle to a particular bone. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and is located at the back of the leg where it attaches to the heel. An Achilles tendinitis is defined by an inflammation of the Achilles tendon and is associated with microscopic tears within the tendon fibers.
The main symptoms are pain and possible swelling at the back of the heel, which is increased during activities that involve activation of the Achilles tendon (such as running, jumping, and other impact activities). It is then recommended to cease all repetitive activities which provoke the pain in order to prevent any risk of rupture within the tendon fibers.
If on palpation an increase in the thickness of the Achilles tendon is felt compared to the other, or if there is presence of a nodule on the tendon, this usually signifies that the pathology is advanced and therefore it is recommended to consult a health care professional as soon as possible.
RISK FACTORS :
- Anatomical abnormalities that may cause an imbalance in the mechanics of the foot (i.e. flat feet or arched feet)
- The practice of certain sports (such as running or jogging on an inclined slope), especially if a proper warm-up is not performed previously or if the frequency or intensity of the training is suddenly increased.
- The wear of shoes that do not possess a good support and are unable to properly support the heel and arch of the foot
- A lack of flexibility in the calf muscles and the Achilles tendon
WHAT DO PHYSIOTHERAPY TREATMENTS CONSIST OF?
Firstly, physiotherapy treatments will aim to reduce the pain and inflammation present with the use of electrotherapy (such as ultrasound or TENS), ice and proper education regarding the activities that may worsen your condition and thus that should be avoided for the time being. Then, your therapist will use a wide array of manual therapy and muscle relaxation techniques, and will prescribe effective stretching and muscle strengthening exercises to target the cause of the problem (which is frequently related to weak and/or tight structures around the calf and heel).
It is important to note that corticosteroid injections are strongly discouraged at the Achilles tendon in the presence of this condition, as it greatly increases the risk of tendon rupture. An achilles tendinitis which is left untreated can lead to a partial rupture, or, if severe, a complete Achilles tendon rupture. Therefore, please consult a Forcephysio physiotherapist as soon as possible for a quick recovery!
