Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles Tendonitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which attaches the calf muscles (gastrocnemius & soleus) to the heel bone (calcaneus). Pain can be felt on the back of the heel at the attachment of the tendon, along the length of the tendon, or at the base of the calf, where the tendon attaches to the muscle. Swelling is not always present, but can occur in severe cases. Children & adolescents often experience pain similar to Achilles tendonitis in a condition known as Sever’s Disease.

Causes:

• Overuse                                               
• Overdoing it in a workout
• Tight calf & hamstring muscles 
• Weak calf muscles
• Improperly supported arches                                                    

Treatment:

• Rest / cross training and proper progression back to full running
• Stretching of the calf & hamstrings muscles
• Calf & shin strengthening exercises
• Proper footwear
• Use of inserts
• KT Tape
• Heel cushion in shoe
• Strassburg sock