Tuesday, 21 March 2023 00:00

Causes of Achilles Tendon Pain

The Achilles tendon connects the heel bone to the calf muscles at the back of the ankle. This tendon supports the calf and ankle during movement. A tear in this tendon can be partial or complete and can happen from overuse. Taking on a new sport or suddenly increasing exercise intensity can lead to Achilles tendon injuries. Other reasons for such injuries include wearing ill-fitting footwear, aging, and being overweight. When one tears or ruptures their Achilles tendon, they may hear a popping sound and will often feel pain in the heel or back of the leg. The pain will likely worsen when moving the foot or ankle and it will be difficult to walk. Achilles tendonitis is when the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed. This can either be “non-insertional” where the fibers in the middle of the tendon become irritated or “insertional” where the fibers in the lower tendon become inflamed. Tendinitis can develop gradually when there is too much strain placed on the Achilles tendon. If symptoms are severe and disruptive or when one believes they have ruptured their Achilles tendon, seeing a chiropodist for treatment is strongly suggested.

Achilles tendonitis is a common injury of the Achilles tendon, a band of fibrous tissue that runs along the back of the lower leg. The Achilles tendon can also rupture, making it impossible to lift the foot. If you are suffering from heel or calf pain, please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Causes of Achilles tendon injuries include: 

  • Repetitive stress or overuse

  • Sudden increase in activity levels

  • High impact injury

  • Calf muscle tightness or weakness

  • Altered foot biomechanics

  • Heel bone spurs

  • Underlying medical conditions that weaken the tendon

Symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury include: 

  • Heel and calf pain that worsens following exercise

  • Chronic heel and calf pain

  • Sudden pain in the back of the ankle or calf

  • A popping or snapping sensation

  • Thickened lump in the Achilles tendon

  • Ankle and calf stiffness

  • Decreased range of motion in the affected foot

  • Swelling

  • Difficulty walking 

Treatment

  • Resting the affected leg

  • Applying ice 

  • Compressing the foot and ankle

  • Elevating the injured leg 

  • Wearing orthotics

  • Low impact exercises

  • Stretches

  • Strengthening exercises 

  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications

  • Cortisone injections

  • Surgery, if the tendon is ruptured 

Achilles tendon injuries can be very painful and lead to reduced mobility if left untreated. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Achilles Tendon Injuries