Achilles Tendinopathy
This is an over-use injury affecting the Achilles tendon, which runs down the back of the lower leg to the heel. Athletes, joggers, runners and other sports people are most commonly affected. A high heel tab on running shoes as well as improper training/ insufficient warming-up may aggravate it. Athletes over 35 are more prone to this injury due to impaired blood-flow to this tendon.
Symptoms Initially, pain is experienced first thing in the morning or after activity. Symptoms may progress to unrelenting pain. The area will be hot and inflamed and may be swollen. Pain will increase when standing on tip-toe.
Podiatry Treatment It is important to rest from sporting activity and an ice pack should be applied to the area for 10 minutes, four times a day. Underlying biomechanical abnormalities must be corrected and a heel raise, to rest the Achilles tendon, is often useful. A rehabilitation programme involving stretching exercises should be begun including orthotics and footwear recommendations.
