Achilles tendonitis

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Achilles tendonitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon (see tendonitis). It is generally precipitated by overuse of the affected limb and is more common among athletes training under less than ideal conditions. It should not be confused with xanthoma of the tendon, which is the accumulation of cholesterol in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia.

The Achilles tendon does not have good blood supply or cell activity, so this injury can be slow to heal. The tendon receives nutrients from the tendon sheath or paratendon. When an injury occurs to the tendon, cells from surrounding structures migrate into the tendon to assist in repair. Some of these cells come from blood vessels that enter the tendon to provide direct blood flow to increase healing. With the blood vessels come nerve fibers. Researchers believe these nerve fibers to be the cause of the pain.

Treatment is possible with ice, wearing heel pads to reduce the strain on the tendon, and an exercise routine geared towards strengthening the tendon. Seeing a sports medicine clinician, a podiatrist, or a physical therapist as soon as possible is important, because this injury can lead to an Achilles tendon rupture with continued overuse. Treatment may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, ultrasound therapy, manual therapy techniques, a rehabilitation program, and in rare cases, application of a plaster cast. Steroid injection is sometimes used, but must be done after careful, expert consideration because it can increase the risk of tendon rupture. Severe cases may require surgery from an orthopedic surgeon.

High load eccentric contractions have recently been shown to be very effective at decreasing the pain and strengthening the tendon.

Prevention includes following appropriate exercise habits and wearing low-heeled shoes. An athletic trainer or physical trainer can prescribe safe exercise methods.