Achilles tenditinis is inflammation of the Achilles tendon located at the back of your calf and heel

Risk Factors

People with tight calf muscles are at risk of injury to the Achilles tendon. Typically common in runners, dancers, athletes that do a lot of stop/start as they put a lot of stress on the Achilles tendon. Women that alternate between high heels and flats are also at risk.

Symptoms

• Pain along the tendon but usually focused at the back of the heel

• Potential swelling and redness over the tendon

• Painful heel when getting up after periods of rest like first thing in the morning

• Stiffness/pain which improves with activity

Treatment

In the acute phase, it is vital to manage the inflammation with rest, ice, elevation and compression. Use non-steroidal inflammatories where possible. An ultrasound may be helpful in determining the severity. After the inflammation has resided, it is helpful to have an assessment of your footwear as well as guidance regarding stretching exercises.