Diseases of the Achilles Tendon

The Achilles tendon is a band of fibrous tissue that connects the calf muscle to the heal bone. It is necessary for several routine activities, such as walking and running. Because of this, it is at high risk of injury, disease or complications. Though usually mild, Achilles tendon disease should be attended to immediately to prevent further pain.

Types

• Tendon diseases are typically short-lived, unless the tendon is severely damaged or broken. Common diseases associated with the Achilles tendon include tendonitis and tendonosis. Tendonitis is simply the inflammation of the tendon, often caused by physical injury. Tendonosis occurs when the tendon degenerates and develops microscopic tears. These tears can lead to the eventual degeneration of the tendon, which can become chronic if left untreated. Another disease that affects area is Achilles tendon bursitis, which is an inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac near the Achilles tendon.

Symptoms

• Symptoms associated with complications of the Achilles tendon typically involve some measure of pain, inflammation, stiffness and tenderness. The tendon, ankle and foot may become difficult or impossible to move.

Causes

• Diseases of the Achilles tendon usually come about through physical wear and tear. Thus, individuals involved in sports or high-contact activities are at a high risk of tendon disease. Excess pressure or stress can cause the Achilles tendon to rupture, split or tear. Repetitive motion, such as running, can create small tears in the Achilles tendon that are unable to heal as the tendon is used over and over again. Footgear or shoes that are too small or too large is another common cause of tendon disease.

Treatment

• Treatment for tendon disease typically involves a combination of rest, ice, compression and elevation. The injured Achilles tendon should be wrapped in a cast or athletic tape to prevent excessive movement. The injured Achilles tendon should be put to limited use and elevated while sitting or lying down. Ice can be applied in short intervals (10 to 15 minutes) to limit pain and inflammation. Additionally, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Ibuprofen, can be taken to quell symptoms of an injured Achilles tendon.

Prevention/Solution

• Individuals should wear proper-fitting shoes and footgear at all times when involved in contact activities, including walking. Stretching before exercising will limit the chances of an Achilles tendon tearing or rupturing. Under no circumstances should excess pressure be applied to an Achilles tendon that is experiencing pain, especially pain lasting longer than a few minutes.