Achilles Pain
At a glance
The Achilles tendon runs down the back of the lower leg and connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. It allows you to rise up on your toes and push off the ground when you walk or run.
Achilles tendon painoccurs when there is an irritation, MICRORUPTURES (or MICROTEARS) or an inflammation of the Achilles tendon. It is the largest tendon in the body, and is thick enough to support the entire body weight. Any rupture, inflammation, or injury to it causes pain while walking or running, as the tendon bears almost eight times an individual’s body weight during a sprint or run. Achilles tendon pain is a very painful condition, which can hamper the course of a normal life.
Achilles tendon problems are most often caused by overuse or repeated movements. These movements can happen during sports, work, or other activities. Excessive or unbalanced tension in the Achilles tendon causes micro tears at the attachment to the heel bone or in its body itself. Another common cause is advancing age when the tendon becomes less flexible, and more susceptible to injury.
The most common symptom associated with the Achilles tendon is the heel pain experienced over the back of the heel. The pain may come on gradually or may occur only when you walk or run. It may also be associated with less strength and range of movement in the ankle.
Treatment approaches for Achilles pain are chosen on the basis of how long the condition has been present and the degree of damage to the tendon.