Why achilles tendon pain

Symptoms of Achilles Tendon Disorders The symptoms associated with Achilles tendonitis and tendonosis include: Pain—aching, stiffness, soreness or tenderness—within the tendon. Pain often appears upon arising in the morning or after periods of rest, then improves somewhat with motion but later worsens with increased activity. Tenderness, or sometimes intense pain, when the sides of the tendon are squeezed. There is less tenderness, however, when pressing directly on the back of the tendon. When the disorder progresses to degeneration, the tendon may become enlarged and may develop nodules in the area where the tissue is damaged.

Treatment of Achilles Tendon Disorders Treatment approaches for Achilles tendonitis or tendonosis are selected on the basis of how long the injury has been present and the degree of damage to the tendon. In the early stage, when there is sudden acute inflammation, one or more of the following options may be recommended: Immobilization. Immobilization may involve the use of a cast or removable walking boot to reduce forces through the Achilles tendon and promote healing.

To reduce swelling due to inflammation, apply a bag of ice over a thin towel to the affected area for 20 minutes of each waking hour. Do not put ice directly against the skin.

Oral medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, may be helpful in reducing the pain and inflammation in the early stage of the condition. For those with overpronation or gait abnormalities, custom orthotic devices may be prescribed.

Night splints. Night splints help to maintain a stretch in the Achilles tendon during sleep. Physical therapy. The two main causes of Achilles tendon pain are a tear or rupture to to the tendon and tendinitis.

We discuss both of these causes below:. It is possible for a person to tear the fibers of an Achilles tendon. This type of injury can either be:. A tear or rupture is usually the result of excessive or repetitive stress on the ankle and feet. People who play sports that require rapid changes of pace or direction, such as tennis, football, and soccer, often incur injuries to the Achilles tendon.

These types of injury are also more likely when a person first starts a new sport or returns to an activity after a prolonged break. Sudden increases in exercise intensity can also lead to Achilles tendon injuries. Achilles tendinitis is a condition where the tendon becomes inflamed.

There are two main types:. Both types of Achilles tendinitis typically result from overuse of the tendon, rather than from a specific injury. Tendinitis can develop gradually over time when a person regularly places too much strain on the tendon. Risk factors for developing Achilles tendinitis can include :. Symptoms of Achilles tendinitis can include :. Partial tears of the Achilles tendon may not require medical treatment.

If the symptoms are mild, the injury may heal itself with enough rest. People who notice a popping or snapping sound at the time of injury should see a doctor immediately. They will then usually perform a physical examination of the affected leg. Symptoms of Achilles tendon problems can overlap with other types of injury, such as a sprained ankle, which can make it challenging for doctors to diagnose.

To help with their diagnosis, a doctor may recommend an X-ray or MRI scan. These tests create an image of the bones, ligaments, and tendons and allow the doctor to check for problems, such as tears or inflammation. A doctor may also recommend physical therapy to help strengthen the calf muscle, reduce pressure on the tendon, and aid recovery. For example, eccentric strength training is an effective way to treat Achilles tendon injuries.

While it may not be possible to prevent Achilles tendinitis, you can take measures to reduce your risk:. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version.

This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Achilles tendinitis is an overuse injury of the Achilles uh-KILL-eez tendon, the band of tissue that connects calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to your heel bone.

Achilles tendinitis Open pop-up dialog box Close. Achilles tendinitis Achilles tendinitis is an overuse injury of the Achilles uh-KILL-eez tendon, the band of tissue that connects calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to your heel bone. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references DeLee JC, et al. Tendon injuries of the foot and ankle.