What Causes Achilles Tendonitis? Tests and Diagnosis
Exertion of too much strain and pressure on Achilles tendon during activity causes tiny tears on Achilles tendon making it inflamed. The repetive activity that increases all of a sudden involving the Achilles tendon is considered as the main reason for inflammation.
There can be a variety of other factors that may lead to Achilles tendonitis.
Athletes whose bodies are not well prepared and conditioned appropriately for participation in sports or other rigorous activities are most likely to suffer Achilles tendonitis. The inflexible and weak calf muscles lead to overloading of the tendon.
Repeated jumping movement such as in basket ball and tennis and other sports activities that involve frequent stops and starts may also increase the chance of Achilles tendonitis.
You may have Achilles tendonitis when you start performing new exercise. While starting the new exercise program ensure proper stretching of your muscles before and after exercising. Now gradually increase your activity over time without pushing yourself all of a sudden. If you are regular participant in race, you may suffer Achilles tendonitis with too much of hill running.
If your foot arch is flat with excessive pronation you are most likely to develop Achilles tendonitis because it causes additional stress on your Achilles tendon particularly during walk. If you are having excessive pronation you must put on shoes that can have proper support system so as to prevent your Achilles tendon from worsening further.
In some cases trauma or infection makes the Achilles tendon inflamed, resulting in the condition of Achilles tendonitis.
When to see a doctor?
If the area around your Achilles tendon becomes painful that aggravates with activity, you must see a doctor to get yourself evaluated and discuss treatment.
You must call a doctor when the back of your heel at the site of Achilles tendon is persistently becoming painful. This type of pain does not go away even after two weeks in spite of home remedies.
Also consider visiting your doctor as soon as you observe signs of rupture on your Achilles tendon.
Tests and diagnosis
Your doctor may feel the need for examining your foot besides considering an option of conducting X-ray on the affected area to know whether any other factors are associated with the pain.
Your doctor may also inquire about your physical activity so as to make correct diagnosis.
On suspecting tearing on your Achilles tendon your doctor may ask you to undergo MRI scan.
