The Achilles Tendon is a long thick tendon that attaches from the calf to the heel of the foot.  This tendon is strong and supportive to the lower leg and foot and helps with recoil and force production for walking, standing, jumping, among other movements.  Tendonitis in the Achilles tendon can occur from many different things but most commonly occurs from repetitive use.  Repetitive stress on this tendon causes wear and tear which leads to inflammation in the tendon and causes pain and decreased function.  Anyone can incur Achilles tendonitis but we most commonly see this in runners, track athletes, basketball players, hockey players, and individuals who have a physical job.

Symptoms of this injury typically have pain in their lower calf to their heel of the foot.  This pain can range from ache pain, sharp pain, tender, sensitive to the touch.  There can be swelling in the area which causes pressure and tightness in the tendon itself.  Stiffness/tightness with movements is common as well.  Pain with movement is very common and pain with standing, walking, stairs and general ache when sedentary occurs as well.  If left untreated one can expect the pain to become worse but also increased stiffness with loss of range of motion as well as a higher possibility of an Achilles tendon rupture(tear).

The best course of action for this injury is to seek professional help.  A professional will be able to evaluate, diagnose and build a specific treatment plan for the individual as well as the injury.  A proper treatment plan for this injury would include manual therapies to help mediate the muscular and tendonous stress which helps with movement and pain management.  Mobilization and manipulation of the pelvis, hip and knee joint to keep fluid movement through the joints to avoid restriction of movement and range of motion issues.  Stabilization and strength programming to help build muscular, tendonous, and ligament support as well as prevent further and future injury.  And finally, a good self-care program that will give the individual control on managing the issue themselves.