How to Identify Achilles Tendinitis

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Overexertion of this tendon can result in inflammation - a condition known as Achilles tendinitis. Note the following symptoms of this painful condition, which can result in the formation of scar tissue in the injured area.

Instructions

• 1

  Note any pain or hotness along the back of the tendon, especially close to the heel, when you touch or move your ankle or foot. Often the pain will dissipate after you begin to walk or move and will return after you stop moving.

• 2

  Notice whether your ankle feels stiff. Often in the case of Achilles tendinitis, ankle movement will be restricted by this stiffness.

• 3

  Check for mild swelling along the tendon. This might occur when scar tissue begins to form.

• 4

  Identify when the pain first began and the activity that preceded it. Achilles tendinitis usually appears the morning after an activity that involves overextension or overuse of the ankles, heels or toes.