The term tendonopathy encompasses a variety of conditions involving pain and inflammation around the Achilles tendon. This type of condition is described by a slow onset of symptoms caused by over-use of the tendon when compared to a partial or complete tear of the tendon which tends to have a sudden onset. The Achilles tendon is the strongest and thickest tendon in the body and is the combined tendon of the gastrochnemius and the soleus muscles. The type of tendonopathy is defined by the location of the inflammation. Athletes running long distances tend to experience pain along the mid-portion of the tendon. Inflammation along the mid-portion of the tendon is usually due to inflammation of the paratendon, or the tendon sheath. According to recent studies, runners are thirty times more likely to experience Achilles tendonopathy than non-active people.
What causes Achilles tendonopathy?
- Poor biomechanics
- Calf muscle weakness
- Recent increase in activity
- Poor calf muscle flexibility
- Improper footwear
- History of years of running
What are the signs and symptoms?
- Swelling and inflammation in Achilles region
- Tenderness when palpating area
- Pain in area when running
Treatment:
The success of treatment of any sports injury is dependent on accurate diagnosis, correct and helpful advice and the compliance of the sufferer. Achilles tendonopathy is caused largely by the repetitive motion of running. The main aim of treatment involves reduction of inflammation post exercise, the assisting in pre-exercise stretching and warming up, and the timeous referral for specialised diagnosis and treatment
General Advice:
- See your podiatrist as soon as possible for an accurate assessment, diagnosis and treatment regime.
- Rest: Reduce activity levels
- Ice the area: empty ice cubes into a kitchen towel. Apply towel to affected area for 15-20 seconds, then remove. Repeat three to six times
- Elevate the area
- Compression
