Achilles Tendonitis is an overuse injury of the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon is a band of tissue which runs from the back of the lower leg and inserts at the calcaneal (heel) bone.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of AT include pain, stiffness and swelling at the back of the heel.
– pain after exercise
– tenderness/stiffness in the morning or after a period of rest which improves with activity
– swelling/inflammation at the back of the ankle
Risk Factors:
AT occurs most commonly in those who participate in sports involving running or jumping but other factors which can affect it include:
– Gender: more common in males
– Age: risk becomes greater as we get older
– Biomechanics: flat foot type puts more strain on the tendon, tight or weak calf muscles
– Environment: running on uneven ground, unsupportive or worn out shoes or sudden increase in training