Achilles Tendon Injury

The Achilles tendon is a band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the calf muscle of the leg. Injury to the tendon may cause it to become inflamed or torn. Achilles tendonitis is the term used when the tendon is inflamed. The inflammation causes pain at the back of the leg near the heel. A tear of the tendon is called a rupture. It also causes pain near the heel

Achilles tendonitis can be caused by:

- Overuse of the Achilles tendon

- - Tight calf muscles

- - Tight Achilles tendon

- - Lots of uphill running

- - Increasing the amount or intensity of athletic training, sometimes along with switching to racing flats, which are racing shoes with less heel lift

- - Hyperpronation, a problem where your feet roll inward and flatten out more than normal when you walk or run

- - Wearing high heels at work and then switching to lower heeled shoes for exercise

- - An Achilles tendon may tear during sudden activity. For example, the tendon may tear when you jump or start sprinting.

Achilles tendonitis causes pain and may cause swelling over the Achilles tendon. The tendon is tender and may be swollen. Pain may occur when you rise up on your toes and pain when you stretch the tendon. The range of motion of your ankle may be limited.

When the tendon tears or ruptures, a ‘pop’ may be felt. If there is a complete tear, inability to lift the heel off of the ground or point toes is experienced

If you have further questions or concerns about Achilles Tendon injury, please contact our office for a consultation.

(301) 515 – FEET / (301) 515 3338