The Necessity of Achilles Tendon Support

One of the strongest, and yet vulnerable parts of the foot is the Achilles tendon. Located in the back of the leg, the Achilles tendon is the large tendon that inserts into the heel. Therefore, in order to remain healthy, the tendon needs to be supported so that a person can be assured of walking, running, or dancing for life. The most common condition that occurs with the tendon is Achilles Tendonitis. This condition is painful and requires treatment if diagnosed. The symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis are shooting pain, burning pain, or piercing pain. If left untreated, the tendon can become weak and even rupture.

Achilles Tendonitis

Many people who suffer from Achilles Tendonitis complain that the first steps they take after rising from bed in the morning are the worst. To help with this, a physician will often provide a brace for the individual to wear to bed at night. This device supports the tendon and keeps it stretched in order to lessen the pain upon rising. The primary cause of the pain of Achilles Tendonitis is swelling and inflammation of the tendon itself. Prolonged periods of standing in one place can exacerbate the condition. Athletes, particularly long distance runners, are prone to the problem, but often do not slow down or stop their regimen in order to recover from the problem. Diabetics who suffer from the problem take longer to heal because of their disease, and often have to rely on an orthotic device to support the tendon in order to have mobility. These devices are often put inside an athletic shoe to support the tendon. If you are looking for Achilles tendon supports do have a look at our products menu on the right side of the page.

Other symptoms include pain in the heel when walking or running. The tendon also becomes painful to the touch and become swollen and warm. There are also reports of sharp, piercing pain, like being hit in the back of the heel with a stick.

Causes of Achilles Tendonitis

The two large muscles in the calf, the gastrocnemius and soleus generate the power to walk and going up on the toes. These muscles are the most important for walking. The large Achilles tendon connects these muscles to the heel. When this tendon becomes inflamed, the result is Achilles Tendonitis. It can be the result of arthritis, but can be associated with trauma and infection. In younger individuals, tendonitis is due to overuse, mainly in sports and other high activities that involve jumping. In middle age or older, tendonitis is mainly due to arthritis. Arthritis often causes extra bony growths in joints, and if this happens in the heel where the Achilles tendon attaches to the bone, the result is a tendon that becomes inflamed and painful.

Several factors contribute to Achilles Tendonitis. The most common cause is over-pronation. Over-pronation occurs in the walking process. The arch collapses upon bearing weight, putting stress on the Achilles tendon. Other factors contributing to Achilles Tendonitis is improper shoe selection, inadequate stretching before engaging in physical activity, a short Achilles tendon, injury to the tendon, and heel bone deformity.

Treatment and Prevention

For athletes, the best way to prevent an injury to the Achilles tendon is:

• A thorough stretching program prior to activity in order to properly warm-up the muscles.
• Decreasing the distance of the walk or run, applying ice after running, wearing a heel brace, heel cup, heel cradle, or other orthotic device will help to support the Achilles tendon and prevent injury.
• A heel cup or heel cradle helps elevate the heel to reduce stress and pressure on the Achilles tendon. This device is made with lightweight, shock-absorbing materials and controls over-pronation and stress.
• An orthotic device can also be used to control over-pronation, support the longitudinal arch, and reduce stress and pressure on the Achilles tendon.
• For diabetics, rocker soles designed to reduce stress and pressure on the Achilles tendon are recommended.
• Also, orthotic devices made of materials that protect the insensitive foot due to neuropathy are recommended. The devices are designed to accommodate "hot spots" by conforming to heat and pressure. Customizing to the comfort and protection of the diabetic foot is needed and highly recommended.
• Other treatment options include acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like aspirin and ibuprofen, as well as physical therapy to stretch the muscle tendon and strengthen the muscles in the calf. In addition, any activity that aggravates the condition needs to be limited or stopped until the condition is better.
• Occasionally, casting is used to keep the tendon and heel in place until the inflammation subsides. Functional braces, supports, or boots have been used to limit ankle motion and assist with inflammation. If these treatments are ineffective, surgery may be required to repair the damaged tendon.

Rehabilitation programs for Achilles Tendonitis are usually done at home, physical therapy center, or gym. These programs may include flexibility exercises, strengthening exercises, endurance activities, and coordination and/or agility training.

Custom Orthotics

Custom orthotic devices are used when more support is needed for the Achilles tendon. These devices are made of different materials from a hard plastic device to a softer, more made of the foot and ankle of both feet. Filling out an imprint questionnaire of how the device will be used does this and then a cast made of the foot and ankle. Also, the shoe to be used for the device is essential for the proper fit. It is essential that these steps be taken to ensure a proper fit for adequate support of the Achilles tendon.
Orthotic devices are usually made of rubber, plastic, or other types of molded materials. These are usually inserted into the shoe of the affected foot. These devices stabilize the arch and raise the heel so that there is less pull on the Achilles tendon. This provides the support the tendon needs. These devices can be found at drugstores and sporting goods stores. in our product menu on the right side of this page.

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