Achilles Tendonitis

Information & Treatments for Achilles Tendonitis

Do your calf muscles ache? Does your Achilles tendon feel swollen or tight? If so, you may be suffering from a common lower body condition known as Achilles Tendonitis. Here at Foot Solutions, we understand how painful Achilles Tendonitis can be for our customers, and want to provide you with the right Achilles Tendonitis information and treatment methods to help relieve your pain.

About Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles Tendonitis is a condition of irritation and inflammation of the large tendon in the back of the ankle. Although it is the largest tendon in the body, it is also the weakest and most prone to injury.

Achilles Tendonitis is an injury caused by overuse to the muscle and usually occurs in middle-aged athletic people.

Causes of Achilles Tendonitis

There are several factors that can cause Achilles Tendonitis. The most common cause is over-pronation. Over-pronation occurs in the walking process, when the arch collapses upon weight bearing, adding stress on the Achilles tendon.

Other factors that lead to Achilles Tendonitis are improper shoe selection, inadequate stretching prior to engaging in athletics, a short Achilles tendon, direct trauma (injury) to the tendon, and heel bone deformity.

Products and Treatments for Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles Tendonitis injuries can worsen if they are not treated properly. Achilles Tendonitis injuries can be treated in a few different ways, depending on the severity of the injury.

  • Proper foot support is critical in the treatment and prevention of Achilles Tendonitis.
  • Athletes, particularly runners, should incorporate a thorough stretching program to properly warm-up the muscles. They should decrease the distance of their walk or run, apply ice after the activity and avoid any uphill climbs. Athletes should use an orthotic device, heel cup, or heel cradle for extra support.
  • If you are suffering from Achilles Tendonitis, excessive stretching could make the problem worse. Light stretches on the calf can also be helpful for the condition.
  • A heel cup or heel cradle elevates the heel to reduce stress and pressure on the Achilles tendon. The device should be made with light-weight, shock absorbing materials. An orthotic device can be used to control over-pronation, support the longitudinal arch, and reduce stress on the Achilles tendon.
  • Wearing proper shoes, such as Wellness Shoes, to help you walk properly and correct your balance can also help treat Achilles Tendonitis symptoms.

If you are suffering from Achilles Tendonitis, the specialists at Foot Solutions can help. Come in for a free fitting and find products to help relieve your Achilles tendonitis pain.