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What is it?

Achilles tendonitis causes inflammation of the achilles tendon. The achilles tendon is the large tendon that runs down the back of your calf and attaches to your heel. The pain from achilles tendonitis can be a shooting, burning, or an extremely piercing pain. Achilles tendonitis should not be ignored because it can lead to a more serious injury like a tear or rupture.

Individuals who suffer from Achilles tendonitis are usually athletes or people that must spend prolonged periods of time on their feet. These people usually experience pain when stepping out of bed in the morning or after sitting for an extended period. This pain usually lessens with activity.

What causes achilles tendonitis?

There are several factors that can cause achilles tendonitis. The most common cause is over-pronation. Over-pronation occurs in the walking process when the foot flattens due to the normal transfer of weight. This "over-flattening" of the foot adds stress to the achilles tendon.

Other factors that lead to achilles tendonitis are improper shoe selection, inadequate stretching prior to engaging in athletics, a short achilles tendon, direct trauma (injury) to the tendon, and heel bone deformity.

How do you treat it?

Individuals with tendonitis symptoms should employ a proper stretching regimen before engaging in any rigorous activity. Depending on the severity of pain, sufferers should decrease the intensity of the activity, apply ice after the activity, and avoid any uphill climbs. Tendonitis vicitims should use an orthotic device, heel cup, or heel cradle for extra support.

A heel cup or heel cradle elevates the heel to reduce stress and pressure on the achilles tendon. The device should be made with light-weight, shock absorbing materials. An orthotic device can be used to control flat-footedness, support the arch, and reduce stress on the achilles tendon.

A custom-fitted insole will solve and prevent the problem!!