Tendons are long, tough fibrous tissues that attach muscles to bones and assist in a wide range of joint motion. One of the largest and strongest tendons in the body is the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This tendon helps you walk, run and jump by raising your heel bone. Although the achilles tendon Beverly Hills is strong, overuse can cause damage. Getting the necessary medical intervention for complications in your Achilles tendons can help you preserve motion in your legs and feet.
What is the most common complication of the Achilles tendon?
Most patients complain about Achilles tendon pain. This symptom causes limited motion, thus hindering the patient’s mobility. Pain in the Achilles tendon can mean one of three things:
- Achilles tendonitis
- Achilles tendinosis
- Achilles tendon rupture
Patients with Achilles tendinitis experience pain in this tendon due to inflammation and irritation. Achilles tendinosis is a degenerative disease affecting the tendon due to untreated inflammation. Tearing or breaking of the Achilles tendon is known as Achilles tendon rupture.
Achilles tendinitis can develop into Achilles tendinosis or cause Achilles tendon rupture. Understanding Achilles tendinitis can help you appreciate the symptoms of the disease and seek appropriate treatment to prevent the disease from progressing into severe stages.
What are the different types of Achilles tendinitis?
Achilles tendonitis is irritation and inflammation of the Achilles tendon. There are two types of Achilles tendinitis. The type of Achilles tendinitis you have will depend on the location of the irritation or inflammation on the tendon. Breaking down, swelling and thickening of the fibers in the middle of the Achilles tendon is non insertional Achilles tendinitis. Insertional Achilles tendinitis is inflammation on the lower part of the heel.
Who can get Achilles tendonitis?
Inflammation in the Achilles tendon happens due to overuse. Increased foot and heel activity makes you vulnerable to Achilles tendon disorders. The following groups of people are more likely to develop Achilles tendinitis:
- Runners and dancers
- Those who play sports
The following underlying conditions also influence your risk of getting Achilles tendinitis:
- Weak calf muscles
- Bone spurs
- Flat arches
What are the symptoms of Achilles tendinitis?
Pain in the Achilles tendon is the most common symptom of Achilles tendinitis. Other symptoms patients complain about include:
- Leg weakness
- Swelling in the lower leg above the heel
- Discomfort after activity
- Difficulty going uphill or climbing stairs
What are the diagnostic procedures for Achilles tendinitis?
Your doctor will perform a comprehensive physical exam on the area around the Achilles tendon to detect signs of irritation and inflammation. You may also need to inform your doctor of any symptoms you are experiencing to help them recognize the severity of your Achilles tendinitis. Reviewing your family and medical history will reveal any predispositions to the condition.
Reviewing your range of motion and checking for bone spurs will help determine the severity and cause of your symptoms. Imaging technologies, including x-rays, MRIs, and ultrasound, can provide detailed information about the state of your Achilles tendon. Contact The Sunset Foot Clinic to discuss your foot concerns and determine if you have Achilles tendinitis.
