Achilles Tendonitis
Noninsertional Achilles Tendinitis:
Affects the middle portion of the tendon.
Common in younger, more active individuals.
Tendon fibres may break down, leading to swelling and thickening.
Insertional Achilles Tendinitis:
Affects the lower portion of the tendon, where it attaches to the heel bone.
Can occur in both active and less active individuals.
Often associated with bone spurs and tight calf muscles
Pain and stiffness in the tendon, particularly in the morning.
Pain that worsens with activity.
Swelling and thickening of the tendon.
Bone spurs at the heel in insertional tendinitis.
Limited ankle mobility.
The Symptoms
Repetitive stress on the Achilles tendon from activities like running, jumping, or climbing stairs.
Sudden increase in activity intensity.
Tight calf muscles or anatomical factors such as flat arches or bone spurs.
The Causes
Physical examination to assess swelling, range of motion, and pain.
Imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound to evaluate tendon damage.
The Diagnosis
Surgical Treatments
This treatment also includes non-surgical practices such as medications, physical therapy, or orthotics to ease symptoms before considering surgery.
Non-surgical
Rest: Reducing or modifying activities that exacerbate the condition.
Ice: Applying ice to reduce pain and swelling.
NSAIDs: Medications like ibuprofen to manage pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy: Exercises to stretch and strengthen the calf muscles.
Orthotics: Heel lifts or supportive shoes to reduce tendon strain.
Shockwave Therapy: To promote tendon healing.
Surgical:
Consider if nonsurgical treatments fail after 6 months.
Debridement: Removal of damaged tissue and reattachment of the healthy tendon.
Tendon Transfer: If more than 50% of the tendon is damaged, a tendon from another part of the foot may be transferred.
Gastrocnemius Recession: Lengthening of the calf muscle to reduce tendon stress.