Achilles Tendinitis
Arizona Orthopedic Surgery Solutions for Achilles Tendinitis
What is Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis is a common condition that occurs when the large tendon that runs down the back of your lower leg becomes irritated and inflamed.
The Achilles tendon is the largest in the body. It connects your calf muscles to your heel bone and is used when you walk, run, climb stairs, jump, and stand on your tiptoes. Although the Achilles tendon can withstand great stresses from running and jumping, it is also prone to tendinitis, a condition associated with overuse and degeneration.
Simply defined, tendonitis is inflammation of a tendon. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or disease and often causes swelling, pain, or irritation.
There are two types of Achilles tendinitis, based upon which part of the tendon is inflamed.
Noninsertional Achilles Tendinitis
In non insertional Achilles tendinitis, fibers in the middle portion of the tendon have begun to break down with tiny tears (degenerate), swell, and thicken.
Tendinitis of the middle portion of the tendon more commonly affects younger, active people.
Insertional Achilles Tendinitis
Insertional Achilles tendinitis involves the lower portion of the heel, where the tendon attaches (inserts) to the heel bone.
In both non insertional and insertional Achilles tendinitis, damaged tendon fibers may also calcify (harden). Bone spurs (extra bone growth) often form with insertional Achilles tendinitis.
Tendinitis that affects the insertion of the tendon can occur at any time, even in patients who are not active. More often than not, however, it comes from years of overuse (long-distance runners, sprinters).
Achilles Tendinitis Diagnosis
During inspection, your doctor will exam the lower leg for inflammation and sensitivity. In the event of a total split, your doctor may be able to locate the space in your tendon. An easy way to test for a rupture is to kneel on a chair and grip the calf muscle. If the foot does not flex when the calf muscle is gripped, there may be a partial or complete tear. An ultrasound or MRI may be required to determine the severity of the tear. Click here to understand an Achilles Tendon diagnosis in depth.
Achilles Tendinitis Treatment
During inspection, your doctor will exam the lower leg for inflammation and sensitivity. In the event of a total split, your doctor may be able to locate the space in your tendon. An easy way to test for a rupture is to kneel on a chair and grip the calf muscle. If the foot does not flex when the calf muscle is gripped, there may be a partial or complete tear. An ultrasound or MRI may be required to determine the severity of the tear. Click here to understand an Achilles Tendon diagnosis in depth.
