The Achilles tendon is a band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It plays a vital role in walking and running. It is also the largest tendon in the body. The Achilles tendon can become injured or strained, which means it becomes inflamed. Walking and running are painful activities that you should avoid when this happens. Many conditions affect the Achilles tendon, including overuse injuries caused by overtraining, aging, obesity, improper warm-up before activity, and diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and gout. If you have any pain around your calf, you may need to see a doctor specializing in conditions of the achilles tendon in Katy. Below are some common issues that may affect your Achilles tendon.
1. Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which causes pain during activity. The condition mainly affects middle-aged people, but it can also occur in young athletes. The main symptom of Achilles tendonitis is pain around your heel bone during physical activities, including running, jumping, and climbing stairs. Applying ice to the affected area reduces pain and swelling. Resting your foot, taking anti-inflammatory medications, and wearing a compression bandage may also help. The condition will usually get better after two to four weeks with no intervention. However, if you do not take steps to recover from tendinitis, it can lead to Achilles tendon rupture or Achilles tendon tears.
2. Achille’s Tendonosis
Achilles tendonitis is a degenerative condition of the Achilles tendon that can cause pain and swelling. It is most common in older adults but can also occur in active young people. The main symptom of Achilles tendonitis is pain around your heel bone that increases over time. There may also be swelling and stiffness in the morning. Resting your foot, taking anti-inflammatory medications, and wearing a compression bandage may help. Your doctor may also recommend physical therapy to help stretch and strengthen the Achilles tendon. If left untreated, Achilles tendonitis can lead to Achilles tendon rupture or Achilles tendon tears.
3. Peritendonitis
Peritendonitis is an inflammation of the layer of tissue that surrounds the Achilles tendon. The condition can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness around your heel. It is typically caused by overuse injuries or diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout. You may need physical therapy to help stretch and strengthen the Achilles tendon. If left untreated, peritendonitis can lead to Achilles tendon rupture or Achilles tendon tears.
4. Retrocalcaneobursitis
Retrocalcaneobursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, which is a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues in your body. The condition usually affects only one heel at a time and causes pain when you walk or run on your heels. Resting your foot may improve symptoms, but it will not cure the condition. Anti-inflammatory medications and steroid injections can help reduce pain and inflammation. Applying ice to your heel can also ease the pain, although you should only do this for a few minutes at a time as excessive cold can cause tissue damage.
In summary, the Achilles tendon plays a vital role in the movement, but it can develop various conditions due to injuries, overuse, and more. Some of the most common conditions affecting the Achilles tendon include retrocalcaneobursitis, peritendonitis, Achilles tendonitis, and Achilles tendonitis. Ensure you seek treatment from a specialist if you suffer any damage to your Achilles tendon.
