There is no doubt that Achilles pain is amongst the most common lower
body issues encountered by podiatrists and doctors. While this is the
largest tendon in the body built to endure the pressures created due to
activities like jumping and running it is also vulnerable to developing
tendonitis due to degeneration and overuse.
The most common type
of Achilles pain is the Achilles tendonitis, though, recently this
condition has been referred as Achilles tendinopathy since it's been
found that loss of fibre structure and tissue degeneration is the main
cause of pain instead of inflammation. But still, the 'tendonitis' term
is the most commonly used terminology, and it can either be chronic
(taking place over a long time) or acute (occurring only for few days
following training).
There are lots of symptoms of Achilles
tendonitis, but the most common ones are stiffness and pain in tendon,
particularly upon waking, ache in the heel or tendons that increases
through weight-bearing activities, severe pain that occurs on the next
day following physical activity. The growth of bone spurs as well as
chronic swelling in the tendons which gets worse during physical actions
or throughout the day.
If you feel a sudden "popping" sensation
at the back of your heel, it could be an indication that your Achilles
tendon has been ruptured, and this situation needs instant medical
attention.
Usually, until and unless the tendon is torn, Achilles
pain isn't caused by any particular injury; instead it is a result of
continuous stress that depletes the tissue's health. When suddenly there
is an increase in the level of physical activity, excessive stress is
being laid on the tendon, also a change in shoes or training surfaces
like running uphill (training on an inclined surface), over-pronation of
the feet, bone spurs and tight calf muscles are all responsible for
developing an aching Achilles tendon.
When suffering from Achilles
pain one must take proper rest as it is the most effectual treatment
for this condition. Combining rest with cold therapy is highly
effective. After physical activity, ice must be applied whether there is
pain or no pain. Making use of an orthotic device like heel pads will
reduce the strain on tendon, mainly during the early stages of recovery,
in case if the situation is critical wearing an immobilizing boot or a
night splint may be required.
You may get a massage; improving the
blood flow in this particular area is important for healing as the
Achilles tendon has naturally restricted circulation. Often, relevant
anti- inflammatories are useful but cortisal injections must be avoided
since they tend to increase the threat of ruptured tendon.
It's
necessary to wear shoes with adequate support and cushioning. High heels
must be avoided, especially if there's acute pain. Stretch your calf
muscles since tight calf muscles pull on Achilles tendon more intensely,
which not only causes inflammation and pain but also leads to
over-pronation of the feet. If you have tight calf muscles you can be
caught within a vicious circle of Achilles pain since the tendons and
muscles become tight causing imbalances and discomfort.
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