6321 S Highland Dr
Salt Lake City, UT 84121
(P) 801.274.6905
(F) 801.274.3341
Salt Lake City, UT 84121
(P) 801.274.6905
(F) 801.274.3341
Achilles Tendonitis - 10/19/2008
Achilles Tendonitis is caused by inflammation and possible degeneration of the large Achilles tendon which is the attachment of the powerful calf muscles to the back of the heel. This muscle/tendon group provides push off when we begin to walk fast or climb an incline, jump, or go up on tip-toe to reach something. Pain in this area can be very debilitating.
This tendonitis may develop when you are starting an exercise program or increasing the speed, distance or incline of exercise activities. It may occur when we fall or have a near fall and overstretch the Achilles tendon. It can also occur when the calf muscles are already too tight and when the foot overpronates (falls inward). Part of the calf muscles actually help in keeping the foot in alignment. Men between the ages of 35-50 are at highest risk for experiencing an actual rupture of the Achilles tendon, so taking care of this condition is especially important for them. Men and women occasionally develop a bony bump around the back of the heel and this may be a source of irritation and inflammation. This is often called a 'pump bump' because it has usually been experienced by women wearing tight dress pumps.
TREATMENT for this condition could include using a heel lift, mild stretching, ice, reducing activities that irritate the problem and perhaps over the counter or custom arch supports (Orthotics). Shoe wear can also be a significant factor. The heel of the shoe should not curve too far forward at the top as it may then compress the tendon and cause an inflammation. Many athletic shoes have a heel notch built into the heel just for the purpose of avoiding aggravating contact. Also, shoes that are too worn and distorted (especially into pronation) should be replaced. See your doctor if this condition doesn't resolve.
This tendonitis may develop when you are starting an exercise program or increasing the speed, distance or incline of exercise activities. It may occur when we fall or have a near fall and overstretch the Achilles tendon. It can also occur when the calf muscles are already too tight and when the foot overpronates (falls inward). Part of the calf muscles actually help in keeping the foot in alignment. Men between the ages of 35-50 are at highest risk for experiencing an actual rupture of the Achilles tendon, so taking care of this condition is especially important for them. Men and women occasionally develop a bony bump around the back of the heel and this may be a source of irritation and inflammation. This is often called a 'pump bump' because it has usually been experienced by women wearing tight dress pumps.
TREATMENT for this condition could include using a heel lift, mild stretching, ice, reducing activities that irritate the problem and perhaps over the counter or custom arch supports (Orthotics). Shoe wear can also be a significant factor. The heel of the shoe should not curve too far forward at the top as it may then compress the tendon and cause an inflammation. Many athletic shoes have a heel notch built into the heel just for the purpose of avoiding aggravating contact. Also, shoes that are too worn and distorted (especially into pronation) should be replaced. See your doctor if this condition doesn't resolve.
