Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles Tendinitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which attaches the calf muscles (gastrocnemius and 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 with this injury, but it may occur in severe cases.

 Causes:

• Changes in running surfaces
• Improper training techniques
• Improperly supported arches from overpronation
• Overuse
• Overdoing it in a workout
• Tight calf and hamstring muscles
• Weak calf muscles

Treatment:

• Arch support through use of an insert for the shoe (over-the-counter, semi-custom, or custom)
• Calf and shin strengthening exercises
• Calf and hamstring stretches
• Heel cushion in shoe
• Proper footwear
• Rest / cross training and proper progression back to full running
• Use of Strassburg sock