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Achillies Tendon Injuries

The Achilles tendon connects the heel to the calf muscle. When the calf muscle shortens, the Achilles tendon pulls and moves the foot downward, allowing for such movements as jumping, running, walking and standing on the toes. Although the Achilles tendon is capable of bearing 1,000 pounds of force or more, it's also prone to injury.

  1. Causes

    • There are many causes of Achilles tendon injuries. Wearing high heels or shoes with too much or too little cushioning, support or motion control can damage the Achilles tendon. Certain medications can also weaken the tendon, increasing the risk of injury. Other causes of injury include athletic activities that put stress on the Achilles tendon and disorders of the legs and feet such as misshapen heel bones.

    Types

    • The most common type of injury is called Achilles tendinosis and is a gradually worsening soreness in the tendon. Achilles tenosynovitis is similar to Achilles tendinosis but does not occur in the Achilles tendon itself. Another Achilles tendon injury that might be confused with Achilles tendinosis is Achilles tendonitis, an inflammation of the Achilles tendon. Achilles tendon rupture is a tear of the tendon, and tennis leg is a stretch or tear of the junction between the Achilles tendon and the calf muscle.

    Symptoms

    • Pain in the Achilles tendon is a common symptom in all Achilles tendon injuries. The "pinch test" can be used to detect pain early on. To perform the test, pinch up and down the Achilles tendon with your thumb and forefinger. If the tendon feels sore it could indicate a problem. Other symptoms depend on the type of injury and can include stiffness, swelling and a feeling of sluggishness in the leg. Because different injuries can have the same symptoms, consult a physician for a specific diagnosis.

    Treatment

    • Treatment depends on the type of Achilles tendon injury. Relative rest, stretching, massage, strengthening the calf muscles, physical therapy and ice therapy can help treat Achilles tendinosis, Achilles tendonitis, Achilles tenosynovitis and tennis leg. Treatment for Achilles tendon rupture is different, requiring immediate immobilization and possibly surgery. Activity will only make the rupture worse.

    Prevention

    • Listen to your body. If your Achilles tendon is sore, stop the activity that might be causing the pain and address the problem. If you have issues like high arches or legs of slightly different lengths, compensate by wearing the right pair of shoes. Warm up before exercising by walking or doing a similar low-impact activity. Stretch the back, hip, thigh and calf muscles before and after exercising. Another preventative measure is to strengthen your leg muscles; many people with Achilles tendon problems have weak calf muscles.

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