The Achilles tendon is thought to be the strongest tendon in the body. It is the main workhorse for walking, running, leaping, and jumping. Not surprisingly, most Achilles tendon injuries are experienced by athletes, especially those involved in sports that require quick stops and starts of abrupt changes in direction. The Achilles tendon runs behind the heel and ankle, connecting the heel bone to the calf muscles in the leg. Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis can include a cracking sound when the ankle moves, swelling or knots of tissue in the tendon, stiffness and tenderness in the heel, and increased ankle pain when doing strenuous activity (such as climbing a hill). Tendonitis can be acute, which comes on quickly, or chronic, which develops over time and repetition. Men over 35 are the most vulnerable, particularly if they play sports. Being overweight and having diabetes are also common factors in Achilles tendonitis. A few home remedies include stopping the activity, taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, icing the area, and wearing a brace to limit ankle joint movement. If pain continues or gets worse, it is a good idea to consult a chiropodist for a complete examination and diagnosis, along with further treatment options.

Achilles tendonitis is a common injury of the Achilles tendon, a band of fibrous tissue that runs along the back of the lower leg. The Achilles tendon can also rupture, making it impossible to lift the foot. If you are suffering from heel or calf pain, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Causes of Achilles tendon injuries include: 

• Repetitive stress or overuse

• Sudden increase in activity levels

• High impact injury

• Calf muscle tightness or weakness

• Altered foot biomechanics

• Heel bone spurs

• Underlying medical conditions that weaken the tendon

Symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury include: 

• Heel and calf pain that worsens following exercise

• Chronic heel and calf pain

• Sudden pain in the back of the ankle or calf

• A popping or snapping sensation

• Thickened lump in the Achilles tendon

• Ankle and calf stiffness

• Decreased range of motion in the affected foot

• Swelling

• Difficulty walking 

Treatment

• Resting the affected leg

• Applying ice 

• Compressing the foot and ankle

• Elevating the injured leg 

• Wearing orthotics

• Low impact exercises

• Stretches

• Strengthening exercises 

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications

• Cortisone injections

• Surgery, if the tendon is ruptured 

Achilles tendon injuries can be very painful and lead to reduced mobility if left untreated. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.