Achilles Tendinopathy

Achilles Tendinopathy

Called a tendinopathy rather than tendonitis because research has shown that there isn’t much inflammation but is a breakdown of the normal tissue structure. It can be caused by a rapid increase in training (acute) or prolonged exercise over a period of time (chronic). With either cause, without treatment, recover can take a while due to the tendons poor blood supply. Other causes include; change to footwear, immobility at the ankle joint and overpronation (rolling in at the ankle).

Symptoms:

  • Pain over the Achilles; either on the heel or up to 4cm above
  • Pain worse with exercise and eases with rest
  • Tender to touch
  • Occasionally nodules/bumps appear on the tendon

Bupa Articles on Achilles Tendinopathy

Situated above the heel to form the lower part of the calf muscles