Achilles tendinopathy

Achilles tendinopathy happens when the Achilles tendon is injured and doesn't heal as it should. This condition is also often called Achilles tendinitis.

Symptoms of Achilles tendinopathy may include:

• Pain in the back of the heel, in the Achilles tendon area. Pain may be mild or severe. It may come on slowly or may only occur when you walk or run. Swelling may occur.
• Tenderness in the Achilles tendon area. You may notice it more in the morning.
• Stiffness that goes away as the tendon warms up with use.
• Decreased strength and movement, or a feeling of sluggishness in the leg.

Treatment for mild Achilles tendon problems such as Achilles tendinopathy includes rest, over-the-counter pain medicine, and stretching exercises. You may need to wear well-cushioned shoes or orthotic shoe devices. And you may need to change the way you play sports. Doing these things can reduce stress on the tendon.

You may get physical therapy. This may include exercises, deep massage, heat, or ultrasound.

Steroid injections are not used. They may increase the risk of a tendon tear.

Even in mild cases, it can take weeks to months of rest for the tendon to repair itself. Don't return too soon to sports and activities that stress the tendon.

Early treatment often results in better healing. If you still have pain after more than 6 months of consistent treatment and rest, you might need to think about having surgery.

Don't smoke or use tobacco. Smoking slows healing because it decreases blood supply and delays tissue repair.

You can do several things to help heal your Achilles tendon. Rest the tendon and avoid activities that strain it. Reduce the pain by icing the tendon and using over-the-counter pain relievers. Do gentle stretching and strengthening exercises, such as calf stretches. Wear supportive shoes or orthotics. Try a night brace.