Achilles tendonitis causes pain and inflammation at the heel cord. The Achilles tendon, at the back of the ankle, attaches the leg muscles to the foot. It is responsible for your ability to rise onto your toes and to walk. While more common in people who are middle-aged and older, Achilles tendonitis afflicts approximately 6-18 percent of runners, according to the Health Communities website. It can make running excruciating and if it is not addressed early on, may lead to a tear.
Symptoms
Pain in the back of the heel usually develops gradually and is most evident when walking or running. It starts as a dull ache and then as you push it through continued activity, pain worsens and may make walking almost impossible. It may be more evident when running speed drills or tackling hills.
Causes
De-conditioned athletes who suddenly take on a higher running load often develop Achilles tendonitis. Even seasoned runners may develop it if they increase their mileage too quickly or suddenly add in too much hill and speed work. Stiff shoe soles or excessive heel cushioning can aggravate the Achilles tendon. An abrupt change in terrain--from a track to asphalt or vice versa--can also cause stress on the Achilles tendon. If the backs of your legs--particularly the hamstring and calf muscles---are tight, this can also contribute to the injury.
Treatment
On his website, noted running coach Jeff Galloway recommends that you take four to six weeks off from running. When you return to running, gradually add in miles and avoid hills and speed training until you are sure all your symptoms have subsided. In addition to resting and staying off the foot, you can apply ice packs for 20 minutes every hour for a few days, according to the Health Communities website. Elevation also helps reduce swelling. Heel lifts of about 1/4 inch can also help; avoid flat shoes and barefoot walking. A doctor might treat Achilles tendonitis with electrical stimulation therapy, ultrasound or, in very extreme cases, surgery.
Prevention
Have your gait analyzed at a running shoe shop or by a podiatrist to see if you excessively pronate or have other problems that may aggravate your Achilles tendon. The solution may be as easy as purchasing a more appropriate shoe or an orthotic to put inside your shoe. Performing an adequate warm-up and doing post-run stretches for the hamstrings and calves can also help prevent the injury.
Warning
Ignoring Achilles tendonitis can lead to debilitating pain and eventual heel rupture. When you first sense pain in the Achilles, do not treat it with excessive stretching, because that may worsen the problem, says podiatrist Dr. Stephen M. Pribut on his Sport Pages.
