Achilles Pain

What Causes Achilles Pain:

Achilles pain is usually a result of tendinitis caused by tight or fatigued calf muscles which transfer too much of the burden of walking or running to the Achilles tendon.  If the tendon is placed under too much stress then it will tighten and become over worked.  The tendon becomes inflamed and over time can produce a covering of scar tissue which is less flexible than the tendon.   If an inflamed Achilles continues to be stressed, it can tear or rupture.

Not stretching the calves properly, excessive hill running or speed work, both of which stress the Achilles more than other types of running, can bring on Achilles tendinitis.

Running in shoes that are too stiff can overload the Achilles, while shoes that are too flexible allow the Achilles tendon to twist and  in some cases can contribute to Achilles pain.   People who over-pronate (their feet roll too far inward on impact) are most susceptible to Achilles tendinitis.

The pain can be a dull or sharp pain anywhere along the back of the tendon, but usually close to the heel.   Often there is limited ankle flexibility with redness or heat over the painful area.   A nodule of scar tissue can often be felt in the tendon.   Sometimes you can hear a cracking sound (scar tissue rubbing against tendon) when the ankle moves.

To help prevent Achilles tendinitis stretching the calf muscles is important.  Wearing the right shoes and orthotics to address any biomechanical abnormality is important to help the normalise the strain on the tendon.  Rest until the Achilles is pain free then ease back into any running or walking program.  Avoid hill work, speed work and sand.  Remember to incorporate rest into your future training schedule.