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Achilles Pain occurs just above the back of the heel and often one experiences tightness in the calf muscles. The Achilles Tendon may be noticeably thickened and also tender to the touch. Pain is present with walking and running, especially when pushing off on the toes.
Achilles Tendonitis is Latin for 'inflammation of the Achilles Tendon'. The Achilles Tendons are the longest tendons in the body and they connect the calf muscles to the heel bone. When the calf muscles contract, they pull on the Achilles Tendon, which causes the feet to point down, which in turn helps you rise on your toes. The Achilles Tendons play an important role in walking and running.
Achilles Tendonitis is a condition that will develop gradually, usually without any history of injury or trauma. The patient often experiences a shooting pain, a burning pain or even an extremely piercing pain. Achilles Tendonitis should not be left untreated because there's a chance the tendon will become weak and it could even rupture! Achilles pain is aggravated by activities that repeatedly put stress on the tendon, causing irritation and inflammation - i.e. running and sports.
Achilles Tendonitis sufferers often notice that their first steps out of bed in the morning are quite painful. Or they experience pain after taking their first steps after long periods of sitting.
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Constant stress placed on the Achilles Tendons causes irritation, inflammation and pain. In severe cases this strain may even cause the tendon to rupture! Chronic overuse (particularly in runners) may contribute to changes in the Achilles tendon as well, leading to degeneration and thickening of the tendon. Tight calf muscles also contribute to Achilles Tendonitis (or Tendinopathy). As we age, our tendons will degenerate. Degeneration means that wear and tear occurs in the tendon over time, leading to weakness in the fibres of the tendon. There are several factors that can cause Achilles Tendonitis. The most common cause is over-pronation. Over-pronation occurs in the walking process, when the arch collapses upon weight bearing, adding stress on the achilles tendon. Other factors that lead to Achilles Tendonitis are badly worn shoes, inadequate stretching prior to engaging in athletics, a short achilles tendon, direct trauma (injury) to the tendon, or heel bone deformity.
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Athletes, particularly runners, should incorporate a thorough stretching program to properly warm-up the muscles. They should decrease the distance of their walk or run, apply ice after the activity and avoid any uphill climbs. Athletes should use an orthotic device for extra support and to reduce stress and pressure on the achilles tendon.
Footlogics orthotics help prevent over-pronation. By wearing orthotics the strain on the Achilles will be greatly reduced, giving the tendons a chance to heal. Plus, the orthotic will prevent the situation to worsen, thereby reducing the risk of a tendon rupture. If the problem persists consult a physiotherapist or podiatrist.
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Recommended orthotics for Achilles Tendonitis: Footlogics Casual or Footlogics Comfort |
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In addition to orthotics it is recommended to gently stretch your Achilles Tendons and calf muscles before taking part in any activity, like running or sports. You should perform these stretching exercises slowly and gently, only stretching to the point at which you feel a noticeable pull, but not pain. |
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