Achilles tendonitis, also known as Achilles tendinopathy, is an overuse injury affecting the Achilles tendon. It is common among athletes and those engaged in repetitive physical activity, such as running and jumping. This article explains the causes and symptoms of Achilles tendonitis and explores the available treatments.
Causes
Achilles tendonitis often arises from excessive strain on the tendon due to overuse, improper footwear, or poor biomechanics (such as flat feet). Other contributing factors include sudden increases in activity level, weak calf muscles, or tightness in the calf or hamstring.
Athletes who engage in sports like running, basketball, or football are particularly prone to this injury, though it can also occur in people who do not warm up properly or who have abnormal foot posture.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include pain, tenderness, and stiffness in the tendon, particularly at the back of the heel. Pain is often worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity and can be made worse by physical activity.
In some cases, swelling or thickening around the tendon may be visible, and in more severe cases, nodules may form along the tendon.
Prevention, treatment, and management of Achilles tendonitis
Preventing Achilles tendonitis involves ensuring proper training techniques, including gradual increases in the intensity and amount of exercise. Wearing appropriate footwear, stretching before physical activity, and strengthening the calf muscles can also reduce the risk of injury.
If Achilles tendonitis is already present, treatment is the next step. This generally starts with conservative measures like rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications. Physical therapy is crucial in managing Achilles tendonitis, particularly eccentric strengthening exercises that target the calf muscles to reduce strain on the Achilles tendon. Other interventions may include orthotics such as braces or heel lifts to reduce tendon strain, and taping to support the area during activity.
In more persistent cases, advanced treatments like shock wave therapy may be considered. Surgical intervention is typically a last resort for chronic, unresponsive cases.
Introducing AchilloForce® by DonJoy®: a new ankle support for Achilles tendonitis
For patients suffering with Achilles tendonitis, a new product by DonJoy® may offer relief. AchilloForce® is an elastic knitted ankle brace with an integrated pad covering the Achilles tendon area. This combination of compressive sleeve and cushioning pad can help deliver comfortable and easy relief and proprioception for Achilles tendon pain and inflammation.
The brace simply slides over the foot (with or without a sock on underneath) and is fixed in place by a simple two-part hook-and-loop closure at the front. Because of its slim profile, it fits easily into a shoe, and its breathable materials help the foot stay cool and dry during wear.
What’s more, AchilloForce comes with a pair of silicone heel wedges – placing one of these into the shoe underneath the heel provides extra cushioning for further relief of the Achilles tendon.
To learn more about AchilloForce, visit enovis-medtech.eu
