When you walk, the Achilles tendon in the back of your heel shortens every time you lift onto the ball of your foot to push off and step. This means that one of the tendons has to work with every single step you take. The stress placed on this tendon may lead to conditions that make walking painful. Consult with your doctor to find the best treatment for this soreness.
Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis is a fancy name for an inflamed tendon in the back of your heel. Walking frequently may overuse your tendon and cause swelling, pain, stiffness and tenderness around your calf and heel. Every time you walk, you create micro-injuries in the tendon and if you go walking again before they can heal, you alter the tendon's structure.
Achilles Tendinitis Treatment
Treatment for Achilles tendinitis include immobilizing your foot with a cast or removable walking boot, applying ice for 20 minutes every hour, taking anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and wearing night splints to stretch the tendon during sleep. Insoles can also relieve pain. A physical therapist will recommend the appropriate treatment based on the extent of the injury. Physical therapy sessions might include massage, education on how to walk properly, strengthening exercises and ultrasound therapy.
Achilles Tendinosis
Achilles tendinosis is a condition that occurs if Achilles tendinitis is not treated. Continual stress on the tendon from walking with Achilles tendinitis causes degeneration in the tendon. The treatment follows the same protocol as for Achilles tendinitis except that since the condition has gone on longer, the tendon may be too damaged to benefit. Surgery is a potential solution, though nonsurgical methods should be tried first.
Ruptured Achilles Tendon
If you continue walking without treating tendinosis, a rupture may occur. A rupture of the tendon may be partial or complete, but either will cause pain when walking, if you are even able to walk. A complete rupture requires surgery to fix, because the tendon separates from your heel bone, leaving it attached only to the calf muscles. A partial tear may require surgery too.
Retrocalcaneal Bursitis
Retrocalcaneal bursitis involves swelling in the bursa at the rear of your heel bone, directly below your Achilles tendon. The bursa is a fluid-filled sac that cushions and lubricates the tendons and muscles that slide over the bone. Activities that make you contract your calves, such as walking, particularly up inclines or stairs, cause pain and possibly swelling and tenderness near your Achilles. Your doctor may give you instructions on rehabilitation such as rest and icing, and may suggest anti-inflammatory drugs, ultrasound treatments, a steroid injection and even surgery.
