Achilles Tendonitis Condition

Achilles Tendonitis a painful inflammation of the Achilles tendon due to inadequate strength of the gastroc-soleous complex (calf muscle group), overuse of this complex, or degeneration of the tendon. It is often seen in patients that have had a sedentary life style that decide to start exercising and over do it. Your physician can diagnose Achilles Tendonitis by tenderness of the tendon, either at the insertion to the calcaneous (heel bone) or anywhere along its course.

The first step in treatment is with heel lifts to reduce the tension and stretch on the Achilles tendon. Strengthening and a slow stretching program of the calf muscle group are also needed. If these first steps do not decrease pain, a custom molded biomechanical orthotic is fabricated to balance the mechanics of the foot. Excessive pronation can lead to excessive tension on the Achilles tendon which only aggravates the problem. In severe cases, some patients may need cast immobilization.