Severe to mild heel pain can result from a common overuse and runner's injury resulting from inflammation of the Achilles tendon, called Achilles Tendinitis.
The largest tendon in the body, the Achilles tendon, connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. This tendon is mobilized with every step you take -- whether walking, running or jumping - the Achilles tender is in movement.
Although it is large, strong and can withstand heavy stress, the Achilles tendon is also susceptible to tendinitis. Very commonly occurring in athletes, tendinitis is most likely to occur in runners who suddenly increase the duration or intensity of workouts. Achilles tendinitis is also common in "weekend warriors" who are middle-aged and only intermittently engage in sports like basketball or tennis.
Fortunately, most cases are mild and can be treated at home under Dr. Jeffer's supervision. More severe cases of Achilles tendinitis can ultimately lead to tendon tears or actual ruptures that can end up requiring surgical repair.
The causes of Achilles tendinitis can be:
- Intensive or extensive sprinting, stair climbing or hill running
- Overuse due to a natural lack of flexibility in the muscles of the calf
- Rapidly increasing intensity or duration of exercise, especially after a prolonged period of relatively inactivity
- A hard or sudden contraction of the muscles of the calf when extra effort is exerted as in a high jump or final sprint
- Recurring localized heel pain along the Achilles tendon, often severe, that occurs along the Achilles tendon either after exercise or during exercise
- Pain that is initiated almost immediately after ending exercise and worsens gradually
- Stiffness or tenderness in the morning that occurs about one and one-half inch above the point where the Achilles tendon is attaches to the heel bone
- General feeling of sluggishness in a leg
- Mild to severe swelling in the heel
- Stiffness that generally diminishes as a tendon warms up as it is used
- Bandages that are specifically designed to restrict motion of the Achilles tendon
- Over the counter, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (ibuprofen)
- Custom orthotic shoe inserts provided by Dr. Jeffers to relieve stress on the tendon
- Rest - staying off your feet as much as possible
- Using low impact exercises such as swimming, that do not cause stress to the Achilles tendon
- Ultrasound, massage, stretching and appropriate exercises from Dr. Jeffers that will help to strengthen the muscles that support the Achilles tendon
Please contact your Chiropractor San Diego Running Doctor - Dr. Keith Jeffers - for help or more information on Achilles tendonitis...
Call Today (858) 452-7770
