Achilles Tendon Pain

Achilles tendon pain is most commonly heard in athletics, though many types of activities can cause the Achilles tendon to become inflamed and torn. The tendon is the connector of the heal bone to the calf muscles and primarily is used when walking, running or standing on your toes. There are two categories of common problems that cause Achilles tendon pain; tendinopathy and tendon rupture or tear. Achilles tendinopathy is a tendon injury, as described by doctors that either means an inflammation to the Achilles tendon or small tears in the tendon. This pain is caused by overuse or repetition of movement. Many athletes suffer from Achilles tendon pain on a daily basis. You may hear it called tendonitis, tendinosis or tendinopathy. However, the pain is the same and may require some type of medical attention or supervision, at least.

Achilles tendon pain is more than likely one of those conditions that could happen to anyone, whether they are very active or even slightly active. It can happen at work or during sports activities because of the repeated movement of the tendon. Any time that you are walking and stopping, then starting to walk again there is a chance of micro-tears in the tendon. Changes in exercise routines have also been reported to cause the Achilles tendon pain in adults. Exercising in shoes with a heel or inadequate arch support is not advised to protect yourself from having to deal with Achilles tendon pain. Ruptures in the tendon can occur also when you do not fully warm up or stretch before your exercise routine.

Swelling of the ankle area and severe pain are two of the main symptoms of tendonitis, though swelling and bruising can also be present. The treatment options for your Achilles tendon pain consist of pain medications, stretching exercises and proper amounts of rest. When you are able to stay off the affected muscle it can heal faster and possibly prevent additional tears and injury. In severe Achilles tendon pain cases, it may be necessary to wear a cast, splint or brace, though mild cases shouldn’t require much more than being patient while it repairs itself. It is advised to check with a specialist if the pain gets worse, instead of better. Be aware though that the condition could last up to months for the Achilles tendon pain to fully disappear.

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