The Achilles tendon is located at the back of your ankle and facilitates force of movement from the calf to the foot. Achilles tendonitis occurs when stress or poor biomechanics create microtears in the thick elastic cord. According to the Health Communities website, the affliction is prevalent in athletes who perform a lot of jumping or running activities---particularly basketball players and competitive runners.
Symptoms
Achilles tendonitis often begins as a dull pain that progressively worsens with continued activity. You may be particularly aware of it first thing in the morning, but with movement and exercise it may subside---only to feel stiffer and more severe when you stop moving. As the tendonitis becomes more severe, simple walking may become extremely painful.
Causes
An abrupt increase in training load can spur the onset of Achilles tendonitis. Adding too many miles too soon for a runner or a upping athletic training sessions from one to two a day without adequate rest are often the cause. A person who excessively pronates when walking, running or doing other exercises is vulnerable to Achilles tendonitis. Athletes who have particularly tight hamstrings and calves can also develop the ailment.
Treatment
Runners should take at least four weeks off from running, recommends coach Jeff Galloway on his website. Gradually add miles back in and avoid speed drills and hills until all symptoms are gone. Opt for low impact exercise such as cycling, the elliptical trainer and swimming instead. Icing and elevation can help to reduce swelling. When you return to exercise, wearing ¼ inch heel lifts in your shoes can help to prevent re-injury. Medical intervention is sometimes needed for severe cases---this includes electrical stimulation and ultrasound. In very serious cases, surgery may be required.
Prevention
Wearing proper athletic shoes can help you avoid Achilles tendonitis. If you pronate, wear stabilizing shoes. Podiatrist Stephen M. Pribut notes on his website that shoes with excessive heel cushioning can also aggravate the Achilles by causing overstretching of the tendon. Always warm up before exercise and stretch the hamstrings and calves before and after a workout.
Warning
If you choose to ignore Achilles tendon pain and exercise through it, you risk experiencing an eventual tendon rupture. This will sideline you for several months and require surgery. When you feel pain in the Achilles, avoid stretching the ankle and heel, as this can worsen the problem.
