Achilles Tendinopathy Download PDF, 1.2 MBOverview Achilles tendinopathy is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It is frequently due to overuse injury that causes inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the large tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Several Possible Causes and Contributing Factors include: Repetitive stress or strain especially in activities like running, jumping, or walking.Previous injuriesAge, weight, foot deformitiesInappropriate footwear, training techniqueSymptomsPain, swelling over the back of the heelPain is often worse when walking up hill or squattingStiffness at the back of heel after lying, sitting or standing for a prolonged period.TreatmentApply ice or cold therapy over the back of heelAnti-inflammatory medicationPhysiotherapyExtracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)OrthoticsSurgery for stubborn cases that don’t improve with other treatment modalitiesWhat Can You do About it?Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain or choose alternative exercises that allow you to take the load off the Achilles tendon, e.g. cycling, swimmingUse supportive shoes with proper support and cushioningDo foot and leg stretching exercises regularly. The exercises can help to stretch the Achilles tendon and calf muscles. Rehabilitation Exercises
