Achilles Tendinitis

Achilles tendinitis is inflammation and degeneration of the Achilles tendon, the largest and strongest tendon in the human body. It withstands loads up to 12 times body weight during running, but chronic overload leads to tendinopathy — degeneration of collagen fibers.

Without treatment, tendinopathy progresses and can lead to a complete Achilles tendon rupture — a serious injury requiring surgery and prolonged rehabilitation.

Types of involvement:

• Mid-portion — most common, area of reduced blood supply
• Insertional — at the attachment to the calcaneus, often with calcification

Symptoms:

• Pain in the back of the lower leg above the heel
• Morning stiffness and pain with first steps
• Tendon thickening and swelling
• Pain during running, climbing stairs
• Crepitus with movement