Achilles Tendonitis – A painful condition affecting the Achilles tendon in the heel that makes walking almost impossible

Achilles tendonitis is a painful condition of the heel cord caused by inflammation. Patients suffering from Achilles tendonitis often have great difficulty walking because of the intense pain. The reason for this is that the Achilles tendon – the largest in the human body – is attached to the leg muscles. When there is any amount of inflammation in this tendon, such as Achilles tendonitis, walking is next to impossible. Overworking the Achilles tendon brings on Achilles tendonitis. Achilles tendonitis can occur immediately following an injury, or it can occur after years of small injuries that result in small tears to the tendon. Achilles tendonitis is a very frequent injury to athletes who constantly stretch the tendon to its limits.

Pre-exercise stretching important in preventing Achilles tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis can also occur in those who do not usually do any strenuous exercises and decide to take part in a strict exercise program. This is especially true if they do not stretch properly before beginning the exercises. Achilles tendonitis can be caused by a congenital problem present at birth. In this case the arch of the foot is flattened and the leg is twisted more than is normal.

Switching from different level footwear brings on Achilles tendonitis especially in women. Wearing high- heeled shoes for periods of time and then changing to sneakers or flat-heeled shoes, brings on a gradual development of Achilles tendonitis. The muscles of the leg become accustomed to the shorter distance to the ground and when they are forced to stretch farther in the sneakers, inflammation sets into the Achilles tendon, causing Achilles tendonitis.

Achilles tendonitis usually starts out with mild pain that gradually worsens. Continued stress on the tendon causes severe pain that may prevent the patient from walking.

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