Symptoms
Pain or swelling in the back of the calf, usually 2 to 3 inches above the back of the running shoe. The pain is typically worse when the heel strikes the ground or when pushing off from the ground on your toes.
A rupture of the Achilles can occur during a forceful push-off. Typically there is a “pop” or ripping sensation in the back of the calf, followed by pain and decreased movement of the ankle.
A suspected Achilles rupture requires evaluation by a sports medicine physician and may require surgery or prolonged immobilization in a cast or walking boot.
Causes
Common causes of Achilles tendinitis include: tight calf muscles, recent increase in running mileage or running up hills. Over-pronation (rolling in of the foot) as well as high foot arches (pes cavus) and flat feet (pes planus) can also cause Achilles tendinitis.
Prevention
Prevention includes proper stretching, slowly increasing your mileage and proper running shoe selection.
Treatment
Ice decreases inflammation, pain, and swelling. Apply ice for 10 to 15 minutes three to four times a day. Anti-inflammatory pain medications such as ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) or naprosyn (Aleve or Naproxen) as directed by your physician.
Gentle range of motion and calf stretches can be helpful. Eccentric calf exercises can be helpful in recurrent cases.
These exercises are done by standing on a step or stairs with the toes on the step and the heels hanging off the step. Slowly lower your heel so that it drops below the step. You should feel a slight stretch in the calf. This movement is the eccentric or lengthening movement. Slowly return to the starting position. Repeat 10 to 15 times twice a day.
