Achilles tendonitis

What is Achilles Tendonitis?

This is inflammation of the tendon, usually resulting from overuse associated with a change in playing surface, footwear or intensity of an activity.

-Gradual onset of pain and stiffness over the tendon, which may improve with heat or walking and worsen with strenuous activity.

-Tenderness of the tendon on palpation. There may also be crepitus and swelling.

-Pain on active movement of the ankle joint.

How can Achilles Tendonitis be diagnosed?

An Ultrasound or MRI may be necessary to differentiate tendonitis from a partial tendon rupture.

How can it be managed?

-The patient should abstain from aggravating activities, or at a minimum, rest often in order to preserve overall fitness.

-Possible treatments are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), ice, rest, increased warm-up/stretching exercises, physiotherapy and heel lifts (orthotic devices – used on both sides to prevent a gait imbalance).

-Surgery is sometimes used for resistant Achilles Tendonitis, but usually as a last resort.

What is the recovery time?

Recovery usually takes weeks to months.