
16/07/2025
Achilles Tendon – Cause and Treatment Overview
🔍 What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is the thick band of tissue connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone (calcaneus). It is the strongest tendon in your body and is essential for walking, running, and jumping.
⚠️ Common Causes of Achilles Tendon Issues
1. Overuse (Tendinitis)
Frequent in runners, athletes, or people who suddenly increase activity level.
Causes: sudden increase in intensity or duration, poor footwear, tight calf muscles.
2. Tendinosis
Chronic degeneration from repetitive stress, without inflammation.
Common in older adults or those with long-term strain.
3. Tendon Rupture
Sudden snap or tear, usually during sports or a fall.
Feels like a kick to the back of the leg, followed by difficulty walking.
4. Biomechanical Issues
Flat feet, poor gait/posture, or leg length difference can stress the tendon.
5. Other Factors
Poor warm-up/stretching
Inappropriate footwear
Tight calf muscles
Certain medications (e.g., fluoroquinolone antibiotics or steroids)
💊 Treatment Options
1. Conservative (Non-surgical)
For tendinitis or mild tendinosis:
*Rest – Stop activities that cause pain.
*Ice – 15–20 minutes several times daily.
*Compression & Elevation – Helps with swelling.
*Footwear – Supportive shoes or orthotics.
*Heel lifts – Reduce strain on the tendon.
*Stretching & Strengthening Exercises
*Eccentric calf raises (very effective).
*Gentle calf stretches.
2.Massage Therapy
Deep tissue or cross-friction massage may help circulation and healing.
3.Physiotherapy
Guided rehab, ultrasound, dry needling, or shockwave therapy.
4. Medications
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) for pain and inflammation.
5. Advanced Therapies
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections
Shockwave therapy (ESWT)
6. Surgical
Only if rupture occurs or chronic degeneration fails conservative treatment.
Involves tendon repair or debridement.
🛡️ Prevention Tips
Warm up before activity
Gradually increase intensity
Wear proper footwear
Regularly stretch calves and hamstrings
Strengthen ankle and foot muscle