How Achilles Tendonitis Can Cause Foot Pain

The tendon that connects the muscles of the calf with those in the heel, the Achilles tendon, is one of the most important tendons in the body. This tendon is subjected to immense pressure during movement, and when individuals jump or sprint, it may bear more than twelve times the body weight. When the tendon becomes inflamed and irritated, Achilles tendonitis can develop, causing sufferers a great deal of discomfort and foot pain. What Factors Lead to the Development of the Condition? One of the biggest causes of this condition in younger people is overuse of the tendon, often because of a sudden increase in physical activity or because of very tight calf muscles when exercising. It is especially activities that require a great degree of jumping, sudden changes of directions and spurts of running that place athletes at danger. When physical injuries to the ankle, foot, calf or lower leg lead to inflammation, Achilles tendonitis often develops very quickly. Arthritis can most certainly also contribute to the development of Achilles tendonitis, and sometimes bone growths in the tendon can cause severe irritation, leading to inflammation. Which Factors Indicate Achilles Tendonitis? Most people that suffer from this condition complain of severe pain behind the heel and of foot pain. In most cases, the severity of the pain is at its highest after periods of inactivity, such as when first getting up in the morning and when rising after sitting for long periods. The affected area may be swollen and sensitive to touch, and especially sharp pain may be experienced when pushing or jumping. Lifting the heel from the ground often causes the pain to worsen. What Can be Done About the Condition? Most foot specialists treat the condition with non-invasive techniques such as shoe insoles and are usually successful. Patients are advised to rest in order to allow the inflammation to subside, and in some cases, the entire foot is immobilized by means of a cast. Lifting the heel by means of special shoe insoles can also help to relieve the pressure on the tendon. By applying ice to the afflicted area, the blood flow can be improved, and this may also provide temporary reprieve from foot pain. Most medical practitioners will prescribe some form of anti-inflammatory medication, and even ointments that aim to topical relief. Patients are strongly advised to take part in physical therapy where special stretching and building exercises are done in order to strengthen the muscles and to make them much more supple. It is only after every other option has been exhausted that specialists will consider surgery. In cases where surgery is performed, the bad part of the Achilles tendon is usually removed and the remaining part of the tendon stretched. Can Achilles Tendonitis be Prevented? Foot pain and Achilles tendonitis often develop because athletes fail to make sure their muscles and tendons are made supple with stretching exercises or insoles before they place pressure upon the body. Strong muscles and tendons that are kept flexible with insoles and regular aerobic exercises are less likely to be injured. For more insoles info click insoles