Achilles Tendonitis is a painful condition affecting the Achilles
tendon. The Achilles tendon transfers forces equivalent
to four to eleven times your body weight when running. Unfortunately,
the body is not always able to tolerate that much force and the
result is a painful Achilles tendon. The most painful spot
will usually be one to two inches above the heel. Initially
(acute phase), a sheath around the tendon becomes inflamed, as
the condition persist the inner substance of the tendon actually
changes in structure resulting in weakness and pain (this is no
longer an inflammatory condition).
A heel lift will help decrease strain on the tendon and should
be worn in your shoes throughout the day. A heel lift
is most effective during the first two weeks of symptoms. I
prefer the heel cups.
Physical therapists can apply a treatment called iontophoresis, which is the use of an electrical current to apply
a steroid medication over the inflamed tissue. Research has shown
this to be an effective treatment to decrease pain more quickly
in acute Achilles tendonitis.
Ice is most important during the first few weeks. Chronic
Achilles tendonitis is not an inflammatory condition and requires a
different treatment approach.
Proper strengthening of the calf muscles can actually reverse
the structural changes associated with chronic Achilles tendonitis. Try standing on the edge of a step, slowly lower
your heel over the edge, and then return to the start position. Emphasize
the lowering phase of this exercise. Perform this exercise
with the knee straight and then with it slightly bent. This exercise is presented as part of the sequence in The
Injured Runner – A Balanced Solution.
Insoles, or orthotics (custom foot
supports) may be able to position the foot in a way that reduces
rotational forces on the tendon. Road Runner Sports has a tremendous selection of insoles.
Achilles Tendonitis is a painful condition affecting the Achilles
tendon. The Achilles tendon transfers forces equivalent
to four to eleven times your body weight when running. Unfortunately,
the body is not always able to tolerate that much force and the
result is a painful Achilles tendon. The most painful spot
will usually be one to two inches above the heel. Initially
(acute phase), a sheath around the tendon becomes inflamed, as
the condition persist the inner substance of the tendon actually
changes in structure resulting in weakness and pain (this is no
longer an inflammatory condition). 
